BC.Game Faces Potential Loss of Curaçao Gaming License Amid Allegations of Misconduct

The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) is reportedly evaluating whether to revoke the gaming license of BC.Game, an online gambling operator currently embroiled in allegations of bankruptcy and withholding player funds. BC.Game, which operates a casino and sportsbook, also serves as the front-of-shirt sponsor for Premier League club Leicester City FC.

Reports suggest that a document from the GCB points to the possible license revocation of Small Dance B.V., the entity operating BC.Game. This development follows a lawsuit filed against the company by the Foundation for the Representation of Victims of Online Gaming (SBGOK), a player advocacy network.

The lawsuit alleges that Small Dance B.V. operated illegal gambling services across Europe through a sophisticated network of mirror sites and online guides. These sites purportedly provided detailed instructions on circumventing local gambling regulations, particularly in countries such as Germany, Denmark, and Switzerland, where local licenses are mandatory for lawful operation.

In response to these accusations, Small Dance B.V. claimed that it had not inherited BC.Game’s debts when it acquired the platform from its previous owners, Blockdance.

However, SBGOK countered that the two companies shared overlapping stakeholders, raising questions about the legitimacy of this defense. The advocacy group also highlighted that player funds largely disappeared during the ownership transition.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of two gamblers alleging the company owes them $2 million, culminated in a bankruptcy order against Small Dance B.V. on November 12, 2024. Despite this, BC.Game has firmly contested the claims.

In a statement released at the time of the bankruptcy ruling, BC.Game said:“We strongly disagree with the court’s recent rulings and will vigorously appeal the decision, as we believe it failed to adequately consider key facts. BC.Game is confident in our ability to demonstrate compliance and uphold our reputation as a legitimate operator in the industry.

We are evaluating the most robust options to safeguard the company’s continued operations and maintain strict compliance with industry standards. Our users’ trust and satisfaction are our top priorities.”

The GCB refrained from commenting on the specifics of BC.Game’s situation but clarified the administrative nature of the bankruptcy ruling, emphasizing that it does not indicate insolvency.“A trustee has been assigned to manage the estate and oversee payments to players. The GCB is currently consulting with the regulated entity involved to assess and implement suitable regulatory actions,” the board stated.

Curaçao Regulator Denies Corruption Allegations

Meanwhile, the GCB has also come under fire following accusations of corruption, fraud, and money laundering within its gambling license reform process. These claims were brought forth by Luigi Faneyte, an opposition politician from the Real Alternative Party, who filed a report with the Attorney General’s office on November 25. Faneyte alleged that licenses were issued without a legal basis, leading to significant financial losses.

In response, the GCB firmly denied these allegations, asserting that it holds exclusive authority over licensing as mandated by the Ministry of Finance since December 2019. The board assured that all license applicants undergo comprehensive due diligence procedures, including sanction screenings, business plan reviews, and initial website assessments.

The GCB also rejected claims of financial mismanagement, stating, “All licensing fees are paid directly into official government accounts, leaving no room for embezzlement.”

The regulatory body reiterated its commitment to transparency and due process, emphasizing the integrity of Curaçao’s gaming industry amidst the mounting controversies.

By fLEXI tEAM