Two Major Casinos in the Philippines End Ties with VIP Junkets Amid Kidnapping Scandal
Recent reports indicate that two of the Philippines’ premier casinos have decided to terminate their partnerships with a VIP junket linked to the alarming case of businessman Anson Que. This development follows shocking revelations regarding Que’s kidnapping and subsequent tragic death.
The prominent casinos, Okada Manila and Solaire, located in Manila’s Entertainment City, have cut ties with the 9 Dynasty Group, a junket operator allegedly implicated in the abduction of Que, a well-known figure in the steel industry.
Last seen on March 29 in Valenzuela City, Que and his driver, Armanie Pabillo, were discovered dead on April 8 near a wildlife sanctuary in Rizal province, marking a grim end to a harrowing incident.
Allegations of Ransom Money Laundering
As reported by the Manila Times, a source within the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation revealed that both the 9 Dynasty Group and another junket, White Horse Club, are suspected of laundering approximately PHP200 million ($3.6 million) in ransom that was reportedly paid for Que’s release.
Que’s family allegedly settled the ransom in both pesos and US dollars, which was later funneled through casino e-wallets before being converted into cryptocurrency.
The Philippine Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) stated, “The investigation reaches beyond just the kidnappers involved in the ransom payment. We are also targeting the casino players associated with these junket operations who initially received the ransom funds through their e-wallets.”
Interestingly, on May 7, 9 Dynasty announced it would withdraw from the market altogether, attributing the decision to "strategic adjustments" in the global landscape. White Horse Club appears to be following suit, having also ceased operations in the Philippines.
Echoes of Past Abductions
The ongoing investigation involves collaboration among various authorities, including the Philippine National Police, Pagcor, and casino operators, to unravel the complexities of this case. Regulatory bodies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Central Bank are scrutinizing the usage of e-wallets that have the capability to convert funds into cryptocurrencies.
The AMLC emphasized its commitment to fostering financial integrity and ensuring the Philippine financial system remains secure from exploitation for illicit purposes. Investigators have drawn parallels between this case and earlier crimes committed during the era of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs), which faced severe scrutiny.
In July 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. imposed a ban on POGOs following a surge in criminal activities associated with these operations, stating they often serve as a facade for various illegal activities, including human trafficking and kidnapping.
Additionally, police are examining whether Que may have been involved in an illegal online gaming scheme that escalated beyond control.
Arrests at the Airport
In a significant development, 11 individuals have been apprehended at Mactan-Cebu International Airport in connection with this case. As reported by the Philippine Inquirer, the suspects, comprising nine foreigners and two Filipinos, were carrying significant amounts of cash in various currencies, including US and Hong Kong dollars.
Upon questioning, they claimed their funds were winnings from the casino, presenting a certificate with a reference to "White Horse."
This unfolding narrative continues to raise serious questions about the intersection of casino operations and criminal enterprises in the Philippines, and the ability of regulatory agencies to respond effectively to such alarming trends.