In a civil action, the authorities in the Northern Marianas have fined the Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Casino operators $US75 million for violating of the Bank Secrecy Act.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network assessed the fine against Hong Kong Entertainment (Overseas) Investments for wilful and egregious violations of the statute.
In addition, officials found the only casino operator in the CNMI had failed to develop and implement an anti-money laundering programme as the legislation requires.
Hong Kong Entertainment is already facing criminal charges on the same issue and is to go to trial next week after two court postponements since February.
Dynasty casino, Tinian, CNMI. Photo: RNZ / Mark Rabago