Mali: Prostitution, alcohol… an illegal casino involving Chinese nationals dismantled, the courts refuse their release

Ten Chinese nationals prosecuted in a case involving an illegal casino in Bamako remain in detention after their request for provisional release was denied. The Malian judicial investigation also revealed the alleged involvement of local accomplices who facilitated the establishment and operation of the casino.

The case of an illegal casino discovered in Bamako has taken a new turn. According to information reported by RFI, the Malian justice system refused on Wednesday, August 5, to grant provisional release to ten Chinese nationals arrested in connection with the investigation. The case, which had long remained confidential in the Malian capital, concerns the alleged operation of a gambling establishment functioning without legal authorization.

An installation facilitated by local complicity

The investigation by Malian authorities concerns a network suspected of having established an illegal gambling operation with the support of several local accomplices. Those charged remain in custody pending the continuation of the legal proceedings. According to information reported by RFI, the project received support on the ground from its planning stages.

The investigation notably mentions the recruitment of young women and the search for a residence in a residential area of Bamako to house the gambling rooms. The investigation also reveals the issuance of false administrative permits by individuals described as local accomplices. This support allegedly allowed the casino to quickly launch its operations and operate for several months without being challenged.

Significant revenues generated each week

According to a source close to the case cited by RFI, investigators consider this to be a structured criminal organization. This source also stated that the establishment generated several hundred million CFA francs in revenue each week. Information gathered indicates that on some evenings, up to 130 customers frequented the premises.

The establishment catered to both foreign nationals and Malian citizens. Among them were well-known figures, according to the same sources. The details reported by the French newspaper indicate that the casino's activities extended beyond gambling. Investigators also mentioned the presence of alcohol and discreet rooms used on the premises.

Particularly high revenues generated

Prostitutes regularly frequented the premises, according to information cited by the radio station. In total, at least fifteen Chinese nationals are believed to have worked at the establishment. The casino's revenues were described as particularly high. The investigation took a new turn after Malian security forces arrested ten Chinese nationals.

Placed in detention, they reportedly provided investigators with information concerning several local accomplices. According to RFI, these individuals come from various backgrounds, including civilians and members of the security forces. The investigation is ongoing to determine each person's role in the creation and operation of the illegal casino.

New prosecutions on the horizon

On Wednesday, August 5, the Malian justice system rejected the request for provisional release filed by the ten Chinese nationals being prosecuted in this case. This decision allows the judicial authorities to continue their investigation while the case remains under investigation.

The case concerns the conditions under which the illegal casino was opened, its operation, and any potential complicity that allowed the establishment to function for several months in the Malian capital. According to reports, the investigation is ongoing and could lead to further charges against those implicated.