Latest News: IPI Invited Alleged Drug Dealer to Work as Junket Operator
Published on: October 25, 2023, 07:43h. Last updated on: October 25, 2023, 07:43h.
If you enjoy reading about the intriguing happenings within the world of sports betting, you won’t want to miss this astounding story. In a surprising turn of events, Imperial Pacific International (IPI), the company responsible for the failed Imperial Palace casino in Saipan, reportedly sought the help of a notorious drug dealer to attract gamblers. In an exclusive report by The Guam Daily Post, the drug dealer claims that IPI reached out to him to work as a junket operator. Keep reading to discover the extraordinary details of this shocking revelation.
During the ongoing trial of Liang Yang, a Chinese national accused of trafficking liquid methamphetamine in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Yang’s connection to IPI was uncovered. Court proceedings revealed that Yang had received an offer to establish a presence in Saipan and transport VIP players to the Imperial Palace. This controversial collaboration allegedly took place around 2017, with Yang making multiple trips to CNMI until January 2019. Curiously, the casino ceased operations just a year later.
Hot Lava in Saipan
The shocking details of Yang’s involvement with IPI first emerged on September 23 when customs officials discovered ten pounds of liquid meth concealed inside lava lamps that had arrived via mail. As investigations unfolded, Yang and an unnamed accomplice, known only as “BT,” were linked to the crime. Yang admitted to receiving the lava lamps on behalf of BT, who is still evading authorities.
Yang’s arrest exposed a web of criminal activities, including his alleged ties to IPI. Prosecutors gathered compelling evidence against him, highlighting the company’s involvement. Though the specifics of their arrangement remain unknown, Yang claimed that he was “invited” by IPI to Saipan in order to assist with recruiting high-rolling gamblers for the casino. This suggests that IPI had prior knowledge of Yang during his time in China.
While the initial plan may have been for Yang to recruit VIP players, his testimony reveals that he expanded his operations. Despite his illegal presence in Saipan, Yang managed to obtain a driver’s license and established his own tourist shuttle service.
Yang, who is now facing charges for drug trafficking, pleaded not guilty during his court appearance last week. His trial is scheduled to commence on December 5, where a jury will determine his fate.
IPI Struggles Continue
The turbulent journey of IPI in Saipan shows no signs of easing. The long-awaited completion of the Imperial Palace resort remains uncertain as the company grapples with mounting debts and unpaid bills. The dire financial predicament continues to worsen with each passing day.
As a result of IPI’s failure to meet its financial obligations, it owes tens of millions of dollars to the CNMI government and various private entities. The company recently witnessed significant changes in its executive team. However, its refusal to make payments, including those owed to Kan Pacific Saipan, will have severe ramifications for the future of the Imperial Palace.
Upon entering Saipan, IPI initially generated excitement by promising exclusive control over gambling in the area through an agreement to acquire Kan Pacific. The two parties agreed to a payment plan, which IPI honored during the first year. However, it subsequently failed to fulfill its financial obligations, leaving Kan Pacific no choice but to take legal action.
Kan Pacific has filed a petition to seize Imperial Palace assets in order to recoup its debt of $697,801. A judge has approved the request, granting the company the authority to sell any assets necessary to recover the outstanding funds.
The asset forfeitures faced by IPI are numerous, and the cumulative effects will ultimately leave the Imperial Palace bereft of all remnants of a once-thriving casino. Stay tuned for further updates on this riveting saga.