Canadian authorities suspect that online gaming platforms are being utilized to launder money from fentanyl production and distribution.
According to new reports, the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Center of Canada says that funds deposited and withdrawn from online casinos are being used to blanket money earned from the opioid and fentanyl trade.
In particular focus are payment processers based in Canada, Malta and the UK.
The release comes after an investigation by Fintrac, police and spy agencies and the police.
Authorities target China and ‘other Asian countries’, according to CP24, indicating the use of the dark web and virtual currencies for the alleged spread of synthetic opioids.
Authorities claim money transfers are pushed through online casinos, despite being relabeled as legitimate e-transfers in order to legitimize the action.
Wire transfers to these jurisdictions were often routed through intermediary jurisdictions like Singapore, South Korea and Hong Kong to avoid detection,” notes the regulatory body, as highlighted by the publication.
Authorities point to primary distribution hubs such as Vancouver, with the illicit cargo then moved through Calgary, Edmonton and Saskatchewan.
