In a significant move to combat financial crimes, the Mexican government has closed 13 casinos following a joint investigation by the Ministry of Finance and the national security agency. The probe uncovered suspicious cash operations, international money transfers, and unregulated online gambling platforms suspected of facilitating money laundering. Authorities have frozen accounts, suspended operations, and filed formal complaints with the Attorney General’s Office. President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized the need to modernize Mexico’s outdated casino and digital betting laws, highlighting the growing prevalence of online gambling and its potential misuse for illicit activities. Meanwhile, Belize is also revisiting its gambling regulations. The Senate debated the Gaming and Lotteries Control Bill 2025, aimed at modernizing and consolidating the country’s gambling laws. However, after a heated discussion, senators decided to delay the bill for further refinement. Senator Louis Wade urged caution, citing unresolved issues in the proposed legislation, including loopholes exposed by recent investigations into Caribi Bleu Casino and the ongoing Rima Ray case. Both nations are grappling with the challenges of regulating an evolving gambling industry while addressing concerns of financial misconduct.
