Raids on two suspected illegal gambling houses have netted thousands in cash and casino-style gaming chips, with three Crown employees losing their jobs.

February 14, 2024

Three Crown workers have lost their jobs after authorities raided two illegal gambling houses and seized thousands in cash and casino-style gaming chips.

Investigators also found a baccarat table cover and playing cards at a Perth business premise, where several people were allegedly playing and wagering in an unlawful game.

More than $128,000 was seized during the bust in April 2023 and West Australian police charged a 35-year-old man who allegedly organised the game with money laundering.

The Gaming and Wagering Commission cancelled the licences of three Crown Perth employees, and others allegedly involved in the gambling operation were slapped with fines.

More than $60,000 in cash and gaming chips were seized during a raid in December on home in Perth’s east, where 16 people were found.

Investigations continue into the alleged operation, with the possibility of charges under the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act.

The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries said the organisers of the illegal operations targeted vulnerable problem gamblers banned from casinos and cash-hungry Crown dealers.

Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia said the raids had led to two illegal gambling operations being shut down and several people who were employed in the casino industry losing their licences and consequently their jobs.

“At the first raid, three casino employees were found to be working illegally,” he said on Wednesday.

“Organisers and participants of unlicensed gaming events are now on notice that their activities will be investigated and action taken.”

Gaming authorities and WA police are working to increase co-operation and enhance intelligence sharing in a bid to shut down illegal gaming operations.

Crown Resorts said it was working with WA’s gaming regulator and police to enforce the company’s zero-tolerance approach towards unlawful and illegal behaviour.

“We can confirm the three team members are no longer working at Crown,” a spokeswoman said.