A New South Wales gaming regulator inquiry is currently assessing the suitability of the company to hold a Sydney casino licence, and Bekier - who recently resigned from his role - was taking the stand on Monday afternoon. His resignation at the end of March was accepted by the company’s board.
Speaking at the inquiry, Bekier detailed the shortcomings within the company’s international arm, and in particular its China Union Pay debit card scheme, as well as its assessment of junket operators and the problems in its exclusive gaming room, Salon 95.
“If the board of directors had known about any of these things they would have supported me in shutting down that business a long time ago,” said Bekier.
The inquiry heard that the former CEO felt let down by senior managers at the casino, including lawyer Oliver White, Chief NSW Casino Officer Greg Hawkins, and CFO Harry Theodore.
“It seemed like a bit of a dark art, we didn't challenge them, I didn't challenge them,” Bekier continued. By this, he noted the acquisition of customers and flying them long-range to Star casinos, before entertaining them and collecting money, adding that it was very different to how the rest of the company was run.
The inquiry, which was prompted by reports of the group enabling suspected money laundering, organised crime, and foreign interference, continues this week before Adam Bell SC.
