15 people investigated over alleged buying, selling of casino chips at MBS

SINGAPORE: Eight men and seven women are being investigated for allegedly buying and selling casino chips at Marina Bay Sands, as well as for other offences including unlicensed foreign exchange and remittance activities in the premises.

They are aged between 28 and 49, police said in a news release on Friday (Feb 9). Nine of the 15 people were arrested to further assist with police investigations.

The multi-agency enforcement operation at Marina Bay Sands Casino on Feb 5 and Feb 6 also saw officers seize casino chips, cash and handphones worth more than S$140,000 (US$103,900).

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the 15 persons in the casino were allegedly receiving or providing unlicensed services which included foreign currency exchanges, remittances and buying or selling of casino chips to casino patrons,” police said.

Police thanked those involved in the enforcement operation, including Marina Bay Sands for providing information leading up to it.

“The police take a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal activities and will take firm action against those who blatantly disregard the law,” they added.

Those found guilty of carrying on a business of providing payment services without a licence may be punished with a fine of up to S$125,000, jailed for up to three years, or both.

Anyone who uses casino chips for any purpose other than the playing of games or tips in the casino premises of the operator may be fined up to S$10,000, jailed for up to a year, or both.