Bikies have always maintained a complex relationship with casinos in Australia. Exhibiting risky and often violent behaviour, members of bike gangers have been a major concern for casino operators. Now, gaming officials have had enough, and The Star Casino has decided to ban some criminal bikies from the premises.
This week, officials from The Star Casino and representatives from the Casino and Racing Investigation Unit worked together to ban 140 bike gang members, who have attempted to rob, deal drugs or launder money at the venue. They are currently working on banning another 90 bikies from the Hells Angels, Finks and Comanchero who have also taken part in this criminal behaviour.
The authorities hope that banning these members will push their criminal activities out into the open. Previously, they were able to take part in money laundering and other financial crimes under the concealment of the casino. Now, local authorities will have easier access to criminals in order to reprimand them. In addition to keeping crime out of the casino, the ban also keeps patrons safe.
According to authorities, it is not uncommon for bikies to monitor players. If they happen to win a generous prize, then there is the chance that they could be followed out of the casino and mugged for their winnings. The Star Casino wants to keep players safe, and banning members of these gangs will ensure that this is the case.
"If they see some one win a few thousand dollars they will have them followed and robbed,” says Detective Inspector Wayne Walpole. “It's intimidating for patrons and staff and we are going to make sure people feel safe to go to the casino precinct, which has restaurants and theatres as well, not just gambling.'' The Star and NSW police are passing on the names of the banned players to other jurisdictions and casinos.
They want to ensure that these patrons cannot visit other gambling venues and commit similar crimes.
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