The Nevada Gaming Control Board has had enough: it has filed a formal complaint against Genting Berhad, the company behind Resorts World, for allegedly ignoring the illegal activities of certain high-rollers. The list includes infamous bookmaker Matthew Bowyer, who was recently charged for money laundering and operating an illegal gambling enterprise, Edwin Ting, who has ties to organized crime, and Chad Iwamto, who has been convicted of transmitting betting information.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board has taken action against Resorts World Las Vegas and Genting Berhad, its head company, accusing them of allowing criminals into their establishments and catering services to individuals with ties to illegal activities. The complaint, filed by the NGCB, raises serious concerns about the operations and practices of the high-profile casino resort.

Allegation of illegal activities willfully ignored for financial gain

According to reports from local news, the Nevada Gaming Control Board submitted a detailed complaint with over 31 pages, and the complaint highlighted the alleged involvement of RWLV in fostering an environment where illegal activities were either carelessly disregarded or "willfully ignored for financial gain." The complaint alleges that RWLV and Genting Berhad provided services to individuals with suspected or confirmed links to "illegal bookmaking, histories of federal felony convictions related to illegal gambling businesses, and connections to organized crime."

Names of individuals implicated in unlawful activities released

The investigation of the NGCB revealed a troubling acceptance among executives of Resorts World of a culture that prioritized financial gain over legal and ethical responsibilities. The complaint specifically names individuals with criminal backgrounds who were allegedly allowed access to RWLV's facilities. Among them is Mathew Bowyer, an independent agent registered with Resorts World, who recently pleaded guilty for money laundering, operating an unlawful gambling enterprise, and submitting a false tax return. Bowyer's criminal activities were reportedly conducted with the knowledge and acceptance of RWLV, further implicating the establishment in illegal operations.

Another individual mentioned in the complaint is Edwin Ting. Ting was convicted of conducting illegal gambling and having ties with organized crime. Ting's connections to criminal networks were allegedly overlooked by RWLV, allowing him to continue his illegal activities within the casino's premises. Similarly, Chad Iwamoto, also convicted of transmitting betting information as well as failing to file a monthly tax return, was also reportedly granted access to RWLV despite his criminal history.

The growing need for more stringent checks

The NGCB's complaint emphasizes the need for stricter oversight and accountability within the casino industry, particularly in preventing money laundering and other illegal activities. The good news is that casinos have slowly but surely adopted stricter processes to ensure compliance with legal requirements and to safeguard against the infiltration of criminal elements. However, the allegations against RWLV and Genting Berhad suggest that these measures may not have been effectively implemented in this case.

The complaint also shows the broader issue of money laundering within the casino industry. In recent years, regulators have intensified efforts to combat money laundering and other financial crimes, leading to stricter regulations and enhanced due diligence processes. For example, Singapore recently lowered the cash deposit limit for checks on due diligence for casino customers because of its new National Strategy for Countering the Financing of Terrorism. This move reflects a global trend toward tightening regulations to prevent the misuse of casinos for illegal activities.

In response to the NGCB's complaint, RWLV and Genting Berhad have been given the opportunity to request a hearing, respond to the serious allegations, or attain a settlement with the regulatory body. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for RWLV and Genting Berhad, as well as for the broader casino industry in Nevada and in the other states where casinos are allowed.