Casino licence suspended over 'significant failings'

Victoria Gate Casino closed with immediate effect on Friday

A casino has had its licence suspended with immediate effect due to "serious concerns" around anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing risks.

Victoria Gate Casino (VGC) was closed on Friday after the Gambling Commission withdrew its operating licence and began a review into "significant failings".

The commission said a recent compliance assessment had raised concerns the casino had "failed to maintain and implement effective anti-money laundering policies, procedures, and controls, as required under the conditions of their licence".

A notice posted in the door of the casino confirmed the suspension but said the venue hoped to welcome back customers soon.

A statement from the Gambling Commission said: "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, raising questions about the overall effectiveness of its governance and risk management arrangements.

"These failings are considered significant and represent a serious threat to the licensing objectives, in particular keeping crime out of gambling."

the poster placed in the window of the casino said: "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."

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