In a significant legal development, Ji Xiaobo, the former executive overseeing Saipan casino operator Imperial Pacific International (IPI), has been declared the head of a “criminal syndicate” by the Beijing Municipal First Intermediate People’s Court. This ruling, delivered on November 24, links Ji to various charges, including picking quarrels, provoking trouble, illegal intrusion into a home, illegal debt, transporting others across the border, and establishing a casino. The charges span Ji’s tenure as an executive of Macau junket Hengsheng Group and as the project director for Imperial Pacific International.
Charges Against Ji Xiaobo:
The Beijing court’s ruling on Ji Xiaobo encompasses a range of charges, including picking quarrels, provoking trouble, illegal intrusion into a home, illegal debt, transporting others across the border, and establishing a casino. The charges are believed to be associated with Ji’s roles both in Macau junket Hengsheng Group and as the project director for Imperial Pacific International, particularly during its operation of the Imperial Palace • Saipan casino.
Operation of the Criminal Syndicate:
According to courtroom documents, Ji Xiaobo is accused of leading a criminal syndicate between 2008 and 2021. The syndicate allegedly engaged in various illegal activities, such as establishing casinos outside China, using violence and threats to demand repayment of gambling debts, and orchestrating the conversion of gambling-related debts and asset transfers. The court’s ruling sheds light on the extensive illegal operations linked to Ji’s leadership.
Connection to Imperial Pacific International:
Ji Xiaobo’s connection to Imperial Pacific International is notable, given his role as project director for the company. Imperial Pacific International, which operated the Imperial Palace • Saipan, faced challenges leading to its closure in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The subsequent suspension of its casino license and ongoing issues with license fees have prompted legal actions, with the Commonwealth Casino Commission seeking to permanently revoke IPI’s casino license.
Legal Ramifications and Ongoing Investigations:
The court’s designation of Ji Xiaobo as the head of a criminal syndicate carries significant legal implications. It also raises questions about the involvement of other individuals associated with the syndicate. The case involving Ji Xiaobo is expected to be tried separately, and further investigations may reveal additional details about the extent of the alleged criminal activities.
Impact on the Gaming Industry:
The legal troubles surrounding Ji Xiaobo and Imperial Pacific International highlight the challenges and potential illicit activities within the gaming industry. As regulatory authorities, including the Commonwealth Casino Commission, seek to address issues related to IPI’s operations, the case may influence regulatory frameworks and compliance measures in the global gaming landscape.
The Beijing court’s ruling against Ji Xiaobo marks a significant development in the legal saga surrounding Imperial Pacific International. The charges and allegations against Ji shed light on the intricate web of illegal activities associated with the criminal syndicate. As the legal proceedings unfold, the gaming industry and regulatory bodies will closely monitor the implications for governance, compliance, and the broader fight against illicit activities within the sector.