Nagriamel calls for inquiry into casino allegations
July 7, 2025 10:34 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Nicholas Mwai.
The Nagriamel Movement is calling on the Government of Vanuatu to launch an immediate inquiry into allegations of violence and exploitation of Ni-Vanuatu citizens by some casino operators.
In a formal letter addressed to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Andrew Solomon Napuat, and copied to the Prime Minister and key government offices, Secretary General (SG) of the Nagriamel Movement, Jeff Joel Patunvanu, raised concern about incidents involving alleged violent and unfair treatment of Indigenous Ni-Vanuatu citizens by certain casino operators.
“This is a serious matter and may breach the laws of the Republic of Vanuatu,” said Patunvanu.
While noting that gambling involves financial risk, he said this does not justify any form of violence or intimidation. “No one should be subjected to abuse or mistreatment under any circumstances,” he said.
The SG also pointed to broader concerns about the influence of the industry on Vanuatu’s youth and cultural values. He said he has observed troubling behaviour, including young girls socialising with individuals associated with casinos. “We must be cautious,” he said. “Some of these individuals may have hidden motives.”
Patunvanu urged community chiefs to hold urgent consultations with parents and guardians to raise awareness and help protect children. “We must act before any harm is done.”
Citing the Casino Control Act [CAP 223], he reminded authorities that casinos in Vanuatu must comply with licensing and oversight conditions, including a 2.5% gross profit tax, mandatory financial audits, and software testing.
While acknowledging that the casino industry creates employment and contributes tax revenue, Patunvanu warned of potential harms, including problem gambling and the exploitation of vulnerable people. He said the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other relevant bodies must ensure the sector operates lawfully and ethically, and always in the best interests of Ni-Vanuatu citizens.
The letter ends with a direct call for action: “We respectfully request the immediate establishment of an inquiry this week to investigate these reported incidents and to identify the root causes. Prompt action is necessary to prevent further harm and to protect our people and communities.”
The Nagriamel Movement’s submission also outlined how other countries respond to misconduct in the casino and gambling industries. In China, junket operator Alvin Chau received a lengthy prison sentence for organised crime and money laundering. In the United Kingdom, the Gambling Commission enforces the Gambling Act 2005 to protect at-risk individuals. In Australia, strict measures apply under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. In the United States, although some states have legalised gambling, unauthorised online gambling is restricted under federal law, with regulatory bodies exercising close oversight. The submission also referred to a recent case in Sydney where a major casino faced the risk of losing its licence over compliance issues.
“Vanuatu has always welcomed people from different backgrounds into our peaceful and culturally rich country,” Patunvanu said. “However, we must remain vigilant about who we allow into our communities and their influence on our people.”
The letter has been widely circulated, including to government ministries, media outlets, and all registered casino operators in Vanuatu.
The Nagriamel Movement is one of Vanuatu’s oldest political movements, advocating for Indigenous rights and self-determination since before independence.
