MGA defends hardline penalties amid “renewed focus” on compliance
Nine operators’ licences suspended or cancelled under new initiatives
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has defended its decision to suspend or cancel nine egaming licences for regulatory infractions as part of a “renewed focus” on compliance.
Four operators, including Bet Service Corporation, BTM Entertainment, Morpheus Games and Betixx, have all had their Maltese gaming licences suspended since the turn of 2019.
The reasons for the suspensions have not been disclosed by the MGA. However, the regulator said it is taking “a renewed focus on compliance” which is naturally reflected in the penalties.
A further five operators, Neptune Entertainment, Triton Gaming, World Services Limited Bet Service Group and World of Bets, have all seen their licences cancelled by the MGA.
A spokesperson for the regulator said it was “empowered” to utilise a number of different enforcement measures.
Under section nine of the Malta Gaming Act, the MGA can suspend operator licences, with all suspensions being revocable if the MGA is satisfied that “concrete measures” are being taken to avoid a repeat of the same breach. If no measures are undertaken, the MGA can cancel licences where required.
Suspended operators must indefinitely suspend all gaming operations, cease to register new players or accept deposits and submit all data and documentation directed by the MGA. If a cancellation occurs, the operator concerned must suspend all gaming operations with immediate effect. In addition, the operator must display a notice on their website confirming that their MGA authorisation has been cancelled.
All players on the sites who are due outstanding payments are requested to contact the MGA submitting identity information and information on their respective payments.