Michigan regulator sends cease-and-desist orders to 10 illegal offshore operators
Michigan Gaming Control Board looks to shutter illegal platforms owned by Belize-based firm Apex Dynamics as state regulator once again bares its teeth
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has sent cease-and-desist letters to 10 unlicensed offshore operators all being run by a single parent company from Belize.
Among the list of operators ordered to stop offering online casino games to customers residing in the Great Lake State are Aladdin’s Gold Casino, All Star Slots, Buzzluck, Club World Casinos, and CryptoReels.
High Noon, Lucky Red Casino, Manhattan Slots Casino, ReelSpin Casino, and Slotter Casino have also been sent cease-and-desist letters by the regulator.
All operators in question are owned by Belize-based firm Apex Dynamics.
The platforms are allegedly “illegally offering a variety of casino-style games to Michigan residents,” in violation of the state’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.
According to the MGCB, the aforementioned operators impose strict withdrawal conditions on Michigan players, requiring them to wager their initial deposits several times over before they can access any winnings.
The regulator added that payment methods available to players included Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies.
All 10 operators have been given 14 days from receipt of the letter to shut down illegal activities.
Failure to comply will see the MGCB pursue further legal action through the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
MGCB executive director Henry Williams said: “The Gaming Control Board’s relentless dedication to maintaining the integrity of Michigan’s gaming industry drives our efforts.
“We will continue to take strong action to shut down illegal operations that undermine trust in Michigan’s legal gaming system.”
Earlier this month, the MGCB sent out five cease-and-desist letters to unlicensed operators linked to jurisdictions including China, Costa Rica, and Curaçao.
This followed on from the regulator sending another cease-and-desist letter to offshore operator BetNow back in February.