CASINO RAISES ALARM OVER SUSPECTED MONEY LAUNDERER

The 45-year-old Chinese national was on Friday spotted attempting to cash in a significant amount of Australian currency he was carrying in plastic bags at the casino.

Crown Melbourne staff called police about the man’s suspicious behaviour and asked him to leave, before he was again spotted on Sunday and arrested by investigators.

Police raided a nearby hotel where the man was staying and found a significant amount of cash.

Officers interviewed the man about proceeds of crime offences and released him without charge pending further inquiries.

The investigation into the 45-year-old was ongoing, Victoria Police said.

“It’s crucial that when any kind of suspicious activity like this is witnessed or suspected that the information is provided to police,” Detective Inspector Jennifer Locke said.

“This helps law enforcement proactively target those involved in money laundering and follow dirty money as soon as possible.

“Police value the efforts of entertainment venues and licensed premises including Crown to target suspected money laundering.”

Crown Melbourne chief executive Mike Volkert said the casino was fully committed to partnering with law enforcement agencies and AUSTRAC in the fight against money laundering, terrorism financing and other serious financial crime.

“We were pleased to assist Victoria Police in this matter, helping to identify persons of interest, provide insight into money laundering techniques, and through ongoing support with the investigation,” he said in a statement.

Source: Casino raises alarm over suspected money launderer (msn.com)