British Columbia Targets Alleged Casino Money Laundering Scheme

The government of British Columbia is moving to seize CAD880,000 (approximately $647,000) in a court order. This sum had been deposited as a bond with the Canada Border Services Agency by the spouse of a man suspected of leading a criminal organization involved in illegal gambling and money laundering operations in local casinos. Known as T.L., the man is believed to have connections to Chinese organized crime and has drawn the attention of international law enforcement for his activities.

T.L.’s Ongoing Legal Troubles

The recent legal action is just the latest in a series of issues for T.L. A civil claim was filed in the B.C. Supreme Court, detailing the story behind the $880,000 bond. In 2019, T.L. was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol while attempting to cross the U.S.-Canada border illegally. He was handed over to Canadian authorities, and his spouse later paid the bond. Investigations revealed that T.L. is wanted in China for organized crime activities, despite his claim to be “self-employed.” According to a report by CBC, this case isn’t the first time T.L. has faced criminal charges related to casinos and money laundering.

Documents filed by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B.C. revealed that T.L. engaged in substantial cash transactions at local casinos. In one instance from July 2017, T.L. allegedly spent CAD250,000 ($184,000) on casino chips and redeemed CAD610,000 ($449,000). The suspect’s past is marked by multiple incidents and suspicious activity involving local casinos, raising alarms for authorities. The lawsuit argues that the bond money deposited by T.L.’s spouse represents proceeds of money laundering.

Money Laundering Allegations and Casino Connections

Further investigations into T.L.’s financial activities reveal that he claimed to have transferred $12 million from Macau and Hong Kong, with an additional $100 million held in China. The B.C. director of civil forfeiture cited these transactions as evidence of money laundering, pointing to the suspect’s numerous large-scale financial dealings at British Columbia’s casinos as particularly suspicious. The director believes these activities highlight the use of casinos to funnel illicit funds, a growing concern for local law enforcement.

Global Connections and T.L.’s Criminal History

T.L.’s legal problems extend beyond Canadian borders. His arrest in 2019 followed an attempt to flee U.S. border authorities before walking back into Canada on foot. After a brief period of incarceration, T.L. was released when the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) posted his bond. T.L. later claimed that his wealth came from his involvement in Macau’s junket industry, where he provided loans and guarantees to high-stakes gamblers and earned commissions on their repayments.

Chinese authorities had also notified their Canadian counterparts about T.L.’s criminal history, which includes convictions for extortion and conspiracy. He was even the subject of an Interpol red notice, further underscoring the severity of the allegations against him. Despite his claims of legitimate business dealings, investigators remain focused on the possibility that T.L. laundered millions of dollars through British Columbia’s casinos.

Efforts to Combat Gambling-Related Crime in British Columbia

The case against T.L. is part of a larger effort by British Columbia to address gambling-related crime and money laundering within the province. In recent years, casinos in B.C. have gained a reputation as hotspots for money laundering activities, with organized crime groups frequently using them to launder illicit funds. A 2018 independent report on money laundering identified B.C. casinos as a major destination for the proceeds of crime, particularly from Asia.

Adding to the ongoing concerns, the B.C. Securities Commission recently launched an investigation into a cryptocurrency platform known as ezBtc. This platform allegedly diverted around CAD13 million ($9.56 million) of customer funds into gambling-related activities. This investigation is part of a broader crackdown on the use of digital assets in illicit financial activities, which has increasingly become a focal point for regulators in the province.

Despite these efforts, British Columbia continues to face significant challenges in curbing money laundering, particularly in the casino sector. Authorities are working hard to clamp down on the laundering of criminal proceeds through the province’s financial systems, but cases like T.L.’s highlight the complex and often global nature of these crimes.

Gambling Legislation in B.C.

In British Columbia (B.C.), gambling is regulated by the provincial government through the Gaming Control Act, which oversees all forms of gambling activities. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) is responsible for managing and conducting various gambling services, including casinos, online gambling, lotteries, and sports betting. BCLC operates in conjunction with the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB), which ensures that gambling is conducted fairly and responsibly, monitors compliance, and enforces relevant laws. Legal gambling in B.C. is limited to licensed venues, including casinos, bingo halls, and online platforms operated by BCLC, such as PlayNow.com.

Gambling in B.C. is only allowed for individuals 19 years and older, and strict measures are in place to prevent underage gambling. The province emphasizes responsible gambling through various programs like GameSense, which educates players about the risks and promotes healthy gambling behavior. Violations of gambling laws, such as operating illegal gambling venues or participating in unlicensed gambling activities, can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Additionally, First Nations communities in B.C. are allowed to operate casinos under specific agreements with the provincial government, adding a unique aspect to the gambling landscape in the province.

CoinPoker: A Poker Platform Tailored for Crypto Enthusiasts

For poker lovers who are also intrigued by the expanding world of cryptocurrency, CoinPoker offers a unique blend of online poker and digital currency. The platform stands out for its emphasis on cryptocurrency use, delivering a decentralized and anonymous experience. While its core focus remains on poker, with a few additional sports betting options, CoinPoker has struggled to appeal to a broader gambling audience. Let’s take a closer look at what sets CoinPoker apart and whether it’s a good fit for poker fans.

Blockchain Technology at the Heart of CoinPoker

CoinPoker was launched in 2017 with the goal of creating a secure poker platform driven by blockchain technology. The platform initially offered free-to-play games but transitioned to real-money games by 2018, allowing players to wager with cryptocurrencies. CoinPoker’s native token, CHP, plays a significant role on the platform, rewarding users for their participation. The site supports multiple cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum (ETH), and USDT, all of which operate on the Ethereum blockchain, adding an extra layer of security.

The platform’s Random Number Generator (RNG) ensures that games are fair and free from manipulation, offering players a transparent gaming experience. In addition to security, CoinPoker places a high priority on user privacy, ensuring that players can participate anonymously and make transactions securely.

Well-Known Endorsements and Financial Transparency

CoinPoker has earned recognition in the poker community, partly thanks to endorsements from notable figures like former Austrian footballer-turned-poker-player Mario Mosböck and British poker pro Patrick Leonard. Transparency and financial security are key aspects of the platform. CoinPoker operates under a Curaçao eGaming license and uses a Proof of Reserves (PoR) system to verify player deposits, giving users confidence in the platform’s financial integrity.

I partnered with @CoinPoker_OFF as an official ambassador. Alongside @padspoker our mission is to guide the new leadership group to build the world´s best online poker room.
This huge challenge will only succeed by serving our community and we need your help on that path 🧵 1/2 pic.twitter.com/Fk3baV8Dqq

— Mario Mosböck (@mariomosboeck) August 8, 2024

CoinPoker’s transparency extends to its financials, with approximately $16 million in player deposits and total reserves amounting to $16.75 million. This reserve system helps ensure that users’ funds are protected, maintaining a financial buffer to cover any potential risks.

Speedy Transactions and a Focus on Responsible Gaming

One of CoinPoker’s standout features is the speed of its transactions, facilitated by the use of cryptocurrencies. Players can make quick and anonymous deposits and withdrawals via crypto wallets, which appeals to those who value privacy. Beyond that, CoinPoker is committed to promoting responsible gaming. It offers tools for self-exclusion and implements anti-fraud measures to ensure fair play across the platform.

While CoinPoker might not provide as wide a range of gaming options as some other online casinos or poker rooms, its focus on security, fairness, and crypto-based gaming distinguishes it from the competition. For poker enthusiasts looking for a decentralized and private poker platform, CoinPoker offers a distinct experience.

Is CoinPoker Right for You?

CoinPoker is tailored to poker players who are also passionate about cryptocurrency. By combining privacy, blockchain technology, and a commitment to responsible gaming, the platform offers a specialized gaming environment. Although it doesn’t have the vast selection of games seen on some other platforms, its unique approach to crypto-based poker could be a draw for those seeking a secure and innovative poker experience.