DOJ implements crackdown vs. illegal online gaming casinos

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) said it is on the lookout for other unlicensed online gaming casinos operating in the country, which are similar to the ones operated by Chinese gaming tycoon Yon Lok Lam alias ‘Jack Lam.’

The agency made the move after it discovered that the Fontana Casino in Pampanga owned and operated by Lam does not have a permit from the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (Ceza).

He said the Ceza has confirmed that it did not issue a license to Lam to conduct online gaming outside of Cagayan.

The Ceza is the only entity outside of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) that could issue a special license.

Last Nov. 24, authorities arrested some 1,316 Chinese nationals illegally working in Lam’s online gaming facility in the said province.

“There is still a lot and having hard time on the different operators,” Justice Secretary Aguirre said in a radio interview though he declined to give further details.

The DOJ hinted that the operators of these online gaming casinos are in cahoots with government officials, including from agencies under the DOJ such as the Bureau of Immigration, adding this is one of the reasons why he decided to tap the assistance of the elite Special Action Force commandos of the Philippine National Police during the raid conducted at Lam’s casino facility in Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino in Pampanga.

“I asked support from General Bato and he send SAF troops for the operation,” Aguirre added.

Aguirre said that Lam is already blacklisted after operating online gaming casinos in the country without license.

President Rodrigo Duterte has earlier ordered Lam’s arrest for economic sabotage in relation to his unlicensed online gaming business.

Aguirre said that Lam can can be arrested even without warrant considering that economic sabotage is a continuing crime.

However, Aguirre said the Hong Kong-based tycoon may still be allowed to return to the country and continue his businesses here if he would settle his obligation with the government and abide by its laws this time.

Aguirre said Lam has sent emissary who said he would be willing to settle his deficiencies with the government and abide by its laws this time.