Detectives from the Criminal Proceeds Squad arrested a man in Southbank last Sunday as part of an investigation into attempted money laundering.
Crown Melbourne staff contacted police on Friday, 7 July after the man attended its casino and behaved suspiciously, including attempting to cash in a significant quantity of Australian currency he carrying in plastic bags.
The 45-year-old Chinese national was then asked by staff to leave the complex.
He was then seen on Sunday, 9 July and was subsequently arrested by Criminal Proceeds Squad investigators.
A search warrant was also executed at an unrelated Southbank hotel where the man was staying as part of the investigation, with police locating a significant amount of cash.
The man was interviewed in relation to proceeds of crime offences and released pending further enquiries.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with any information about criminal activity that may be linked to money laundering is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Jennifer Locke, Criminal Proceeds Squad:
“Victoria Police works closely with our law enforcement partners to share intelligence and target those criminal groups and individuals involved in this offending, which is often occurring in conjunction with other criminal activities. Police also work with a number of other regulatory bodies and associations within Victoria both to share information about potential money laundering.
“It’s crucial that when any kind of suspicious activity like this is witnessed or suspected that the information is provided to police. This helps law enforcement proactively target those involved in money laundering and follow dirty money as soon as possible.
“Any reports of offending are thoroughly evaluated and investigated to ensure those involved in criminal conduct are held to account. Police value the efforts of entertainment venues and licensed premises including Crown to target suspected money laundering.”
