The licence of a Malta-based gaming company linked to the Mafia was backdated because it had expired 17 months previously, according to the Malta Gaming Authority chairman.
Joe Cuschieri said he signed Uniq Group Ltd’s licence because the authorisation issued by the previous management had expired in May 2012.
“From that date to December 2013, the operator was allowed to carry on with its remote gaming operations by the previous management. This regulatory shortcoming had to be addressed by backdating the licence to frame it within the statutory five-year term,” he said.
Mr Cuschieri was asked to explain the lapse in time, and if it was normal practice for the authority to backdate licences. He told this newspaper the original authorisation of Uniq Group predated his time and had been operating in and out of Malta since February 2011, following its application in November 2010. The initial due diligence checks were conducted between November 2010 and February 2011, and no red flags had been raised. The same process was followed from November 2013 onwards.
“At that point as well, we had no adverse remarks from official sources used in the process,” Mr Cuschieri said.
“Bear in mind that the authority relies on official sources and documentation… to make assessments about individuals, particularly in light of the fact that the said operator was operating legitimately in Malta since February 2011.” He added that last year he ordered a review of all the authority’s policies and procedures, and strengthened the internal audit function.
Six Italians wanted for their involvement in organised crime were extradited to Italy following an investigation by the Italian police on gaming activities linked to the Calabrian Mafia, ’Ndrangheta.
The local gaming companies form part of an international network linked to the organised crime syndicate, according to a statement issued by the Italian police.
The network involves 82 internet sites and 11 companies based also in Austria, Romania and Spain. There are 128 people being investigated.
Hard cash obtained through illegal means was allegedly recycled through ‘legitimate’ gaming outlets in Italy, Malta and other countries.