Mexico Shuts Down 13 Casinos Amid Money Laundering Investigation

Mexican Authorities Crack Down on Casinos Over Money Laundering Allegations

The Mexican government has taken decisive action by suspending operations at 13 casinos suspected of involvement in money laundering activities. This move is part of a broader investigation targeting key figures in the gaming industry, including some major operators.

Details of the Laundering Scheme Uncovered

Among the establishments affected are two casinos owned by Ricardo Salinas Pliego, a well-known financial entrepreneur. While officials have linked these casinos to criminal operations, authorities have stopped short of directly associating them with organized crime groups.

The alleged money laundering strategy was complex. It involved attracting customers with small gambling credits, then overstating their gambling winnings. This manipulation resulted in significant amounts of money being falsely reported as casino profits.

International Money Transfers and Investigation Efforts

Funds obtained through this method were reportedly transferred abroad, routed through tax havens, and eventually returned either to the same casinos or to affiliated companies within Mexico. Although the exact amounts and origins of the laundered money remain unclear, investigators have launched thorough searches and are collecting testimonies from witnesses to piece together the full scope of the operation.

Ongoing Regulatory Discussions

As the investigation continues, Mexican authorities are also considering policy changes, including a possible increase in the tax rate on gross gaming revenue to 50%, as part of broader efforts to regulate and monitor the gambling industry more closely.