Mexican government clarifies gambling policy as casino is forced to close
The State of Mexico government has suspended operations at the Jubilee Casino in Naucalpan for failing to provide the necessary documentation to demonstrate compliance with legal regulations. During the inspection, authorities confirmed that the casino was open to the public and functioning, despite not having the necessary permits.
Earlier, Naucalpan Mayor Isaac Montoya Márquez reported that his administration has not granted any operating licenses for the Jubilee Casino, under construction in the Santa Cruz Acatlán neighbourhood. He said he would review the establishment’s legal status.
“Our position is clear: we have not granted a single permit for the operation of said casino, and we will act according to our jurisdiction as a municipal authority,” he said.
The mayor stated that, as a candidate, he had made allegations about the way the then-mayor, PAN party member Angélica Moya, granted permits for the establishment’s operation.
“This is a case that we, even during the campaign, pointed out clearly and forcefully: there had been an irregularity in the granting of approval by the former mayor, and that without following the required procedures, they were allowed to facilitate the issuance of authorizations for them to begin operating.”
Earlier this month Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, was asked specifically about the case stating that it is her government’s policy not to grant new licenses for the operation of casinos, and indicated that the specific case of Naucalpan would be subject to review by the Ministry of the Interior (SEGOB).
Meanwhile the head of SEGOB Rosa Icela Rodríguez Velázquez, explained in a press conference that, unlike the previous government—where some permits were granted by court orders—in the current mandate of President Claudia Sheinbaum no new authorizations for casinos have been issued. “We have no interests in casinos whatsoever, and no new permits will be granted,” she stated.
