AMLC says investigating Anson Que ransom payment

MANILA — The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) said it is investigating the alleged money laundering of the ransom paid for businessman Anson Que.

In a statement, the AMLC said it received reports that 9 Dynasty Group and White Horse Club — the two junket operators through which the ransom money was deposited — ended their junket operations in most, if not all, Philippine casinos on May 7.

This came alongside 9 Dynasty’s reported announcement of its exit from the Philippine market.

But the AMLC said it remains committed to probing the alleged money laundering of the two groups.

"The investigation extends beyond the kidnappers who directed the ransom payment process. It also targets casino players within these junket operations who initially received the ransom funds via their e-wallets," the agency said.

The AMLC said it is also working with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to look into the unlicensed operations of these e-wallets with cryptocurrency conversion capabilities.

Anson Que ransom money passed through two casino junket operators: PNP

The Philippine National Police (PNP) earlier said the funds were transferred from 9 Dynasty and White Horse Club, the funds were transferred into at least 10 different accounts using e-wallet services. The funds were then converted into cryptocurrency and moved to crypto wallets.

The AMLC it is also working with foreign financial intelligence units (FIUs) to gather more information on the movement of funds coming from the Philippines.

Que and his driver were found dead were found in Rodriguez, Rizal on April 9.

Family says Anson Que had no business ties with POGOs