The staff convert the punters' cash into cyberchips and the amount appears on the gamblers' computers to show how much they have to play with. -- PHOTO: AP
KUALA LUMPUR - ILLEGAL mini casinos - using computers - have mushroomed all over the Klang Valley recently following the introduction of new software by a local syndicate linked to syndicates in Hong Kong and the Philippines.
Most syndicates also supply computers and servers
Those who want to operate the mini-casinos are asked to come up with certain amount of money while the syndicate would advise them on the outlet design as well as provide the electronic fittings to wire up the computers to a server.
In most cases, the syndicate also supplies the computers and the server.
Using webcam technology, the syndicate broadcasts croupiers live in action to its customers here who lay bets via specially programmed computers.
According to sources, there are at least 100 outlets which are operating as outright casinos and an unknown number which use the cover of a cybercafe to carry out their illegal gaming business.
These outlets offer all types of live gambling games like baccarat, roulette, poker and blackjack via live videoconferencing with the croupier based in Manila.
To prove to the gamblers that the game they are playing is 'live', each outlet has a TV screen showing CNN and there would be a TV behind the croupier showing the same programme.
To further reinforce that the game is real and live, customers can 'chat' with the croupier via chat mode provided by the computer software. All the croupiers are attractive, young women who chat charmingly in English.
The staff at the outlets here convert the punters' cash into cyberchips and the amount appears on the gamblers' computers to show how much they have to play with.
The croupiers are shown on a small screen within the computer screen. The other part of the screen consists of electronically drawn graphics of the bets, cards drawn or the layout of a roulette table. The screen also shows the winnings, losses and the gambler's credit balance.
The computer also allows the player to play multiple games, including one-armed bandit machines.
Sources said the syndicate operates the casino business as a franchisee and by itself only owns a few of the outlets. -- THE STAR
