Chile busts illegal casino ring in Peñalolén, arrests two Chinese
The Municipality of Peñalolén filed a criminal complaint against Ahou Haiqing and Zheng Yu Anwen, two Chinese citizens detained as part of an investigation that identified a network of illegal casinos operating in various areas of the commune.
The case originated after five interventions carried out between April and September by municipal inspectors, who detected establishments offering gambling and slot machines without certification from the Superintendence of Gambling Casinos (SCJ).
The procedures, conducted mainly on Grecia and San Luis avenues, revealed the existence of businesses operating without permits where bettors and electronic equipment were found in full operation.
In an operation at Avenida Grecia 6793, authorities seized 42 machines, while another nearby establishment had 10 additional machines confiscated, along with illegally sold alcoholic beverages, constituting, according to the complaint, “an illegal casino with full commercial activity.”
One of the key points of the investigation is that several premises closed in April were illegally reopened, which is why the accused will also face charges of breaking seals. In a subsequent inspection, one of these premises was found again in operation with 54 active machines, while on Avenida San Luis another operation in September detected 26 additional illegal machines.
Mayor Miguel Concha highlighted the seriousness of the case and announced a zero-tolerance policy against illegal gambling:
“In Peñalolén, we will not allow foreign mafias or any group to operate outside the law. This is the first step of a municipal offensive against illegal gambling,” he stated.
Concha also criticized the attitude of those responsible, who — he indicated — “hide behind not understanding the Spanish language to avoid sanctions,” and emphasized that the municipality will continue working alongside police and judicial authorities to eradicate illegal establishments operating outside the regulations.
The proceedings continue under the supervision of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, while the detainees remain at the disposal of justice awaiting formal charges.
Tags: Chile, Online Betting, illegal gambling Chile