The implication of a number of prominent political persons as well as senior officials at key industry regulators in crimes has resulted in a negative impact on the gaming industry, iGen – an association representing the leading iGaming companies in Malta – said in a statement.

The association said that over the past few years, and in particular in recent weeks and months, the press has covered events, accusations and criminal charges being levied in Malta which have had a negative impact on the reputation of the iGaming industry by direct and indirect association.

iGEN is an association of leading iGaming companies based in Malta and operating on the European and international markets. Its mission is to give the industry a common voice and to drive positive change in the environments they operate in.

A number of individuals in prominent political positions, as well as senior officials at key industry regulators have been implicated in crimes and/or have been accused of colluding with local business leaders, they observed.

“The actions of the few are impacting negatively the second largest industry in Malta, which represents over 13% of the country's GDP. These have resulted in higher costs, an increase in operational complexity, loss of business and substantial reputational damage”, they said.

iGEN said that it fully supports the efforts of the police and of the judiciary in investigating these reports and allegations, and stresses the need for clear and decisive action to ensure that justice is done and any guilty parties are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

iGEN added that it sincerely wishes for a successful outcome of the ongoing MONEYVAL assessment.

“iGEN condemns all acts of corruption, money laundering and fraud, and welcomes transparent and thorough investigations to eliminate all the individuals, companies and representatives from any position of influence.”

‘We are satisfied to see that the relevant institutions have started to take decisive action against these claims, but much more remains to be done. Anyone who is or was involved in corruption and graft must be held accountable, and a clear message must be sent to demonstrate that the law applies to all without fear or favour’ states Enrico Bradamante, Chairman of iGEN.