17 men and seven women, aged between 27 and 58, are being investigated for their suspected involvement in unlicensed foreign currency exchange and remittance activities carried out in casino premises. 14 out of the 24 persons were arrested to further assist with police investigations and 13 of them will be charged in court on 7 September 2024.
On 5 and 6 September 2024, a multi-agency enforcement operation led by Central Police Division and supported by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, Commercial Affairs Department, and partners from Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, was conducted at the Marina Bay Sands Casino.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the 24 persons in the casino were allegedly providing unlicensed services which included foreign currency exchanges, remittances and buying or selling of casino chips to casino patrons. During the operation, over SGD$190,000 worth of casino chips and cash and an array of electronic devices were seized.
Under Section 5 of the Payment Services Act 2019, if found guilty of carrying on a business of providing payment services without a licence, individuals may be punished with a fine of up to $125,000, imprisonment for a term of up to three years, or both.
Under Regulation 9 of the Casino Control (Conduct of Gaming) Regulations 2009, any person who uses chips for any purpose other than the playing of games or tips in the casino premises of the casino operator, shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both.
Commander of Central Police Division, Assistant Commissioner Ang Boon Sheng Jeremy, expressed his appreciation to all the agencies involved including Marina Bay Sands for their continued support and for working closely to clamp down on illicit activities at casino premises. The Police take a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal activities and will take firm action against those who blatantly disregard the law.
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SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
06 September 2024 @ 11:34 PM