The Victoria Gate Casino in Leeds has had its licence suspended by the British Gambling Commission while it investigates serious concerns around anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing procedures.
The casino closed on Friday (31 October) after the regulator withdrew its operating licence and commenced an immediate review into the failings.
The Gambling Commission said that concerns were raised during a recent compliance assessment, after it was found that the venue was “reasonably believed to have failed to maintain and implement effective anti-money laundering policies, procedures and controls”, which are required under its licensing conditions.
In addition to this, serious concerns were identified regarding the “adequacy of decision-making processes and the Licensee’s response to identified anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing risks”, which brought into question the overall effectiveness of the venue’s management.
The regulator has informed the operator that during this suspension, it expects the operator to focus on treating consumers fairly and keeping them informed of developments that affect them.
A sign placed at the entrance of the casino states: “We are sorry to confirm that our operating licence has been temporarily suspended by the commission and our venue is currently closed. We hope to open and welcome you back very soon.”