Chamber of Commerce reports clandestine casino in Reynosa to the Interior Ministry.

Illegal Casino Operation Uncovered in Reynosa, Tamaulipas

A clandestine casino has been discovered in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, prompting concern among local business leaders. Members of the commercial sector reported the illegal gambling establishment, located in a central area of Reynosa, to the Secretariat of the Interior (Secretaría de Gobernación). Business owners are urging authorities to address the issue to prevent further illegal activities associated with this type of business.

Julio Almanza Armas, president of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce (Fecanaco), emphasized the importance of formally regulated casinos as a source of revenue and tourism. He stated that Fecanaco affiliates have requested support to stop the operation of illegal casinos in border municipalities, as well as in the central and southern regions of Tamaulipas.

“One of the most concerning cases is located in the Longoria neighborhood of Reynosa. It lacks the necessary permits and operates in a traditional commercial area, surrounded by shops, schools, and residences, even near the Municipal DIF (Integral Family Development) and the State Tax Office,” Almanza Armas pointed out.

He added that, alongside safeguarding beaches and resorts, it is crucial to prevent new development hubs, such as casino entertainment, from being infiltrated by criminal groups. Legally operating casinos attract visitors, create jobs, and contribute significantly to tax revenue.

Fecanaco has reported the clandestine casino in Reynosa to Luisa Alcalde, the head of the Secretariat of the Interior.

“We cannot tolerate this phenomenon proliferating in the state under any circumstances. Therefore, we have established communication with local and state authorities, including the Secretariat of the Interior, to ensure they are aware and take appropriate action,” Almanza Armas stressed.

After being authorized more than 15 years ago, the state government finally permitted the operation of casinos as a form of entertainment and tourism promotion in Tampico, Ciudad Victoria, Matamoros, Reynosa, and Nuevo Laredo in 2017.