Illegal Casinos Flourish in Reynosa, Sparking Outrage from Business Sector

Reynosa – Illegal casinos are on the rise in Reynosa this year, with a second establishment operating as a gambling house without the necessary permits from the Secretaría de Gobernación (Ministry of the Interior) or the Government of Tamaulipas. This illicit activity has drawn strong condemnation from the local business community.

A formal complaint has been lodged with Luisa María Alcalde, head of the Segob, Governor Américo Villarreal Anaya, and Secretary General of Government Héctor Villegas. Julio Almanza Armas, head of the Fecanaco (Federation of National Chambers of Commerce), reiterated the urgency of the situation, warning of the potential for criminal groups to become involved in these establishments.

“We make an energetic call to state and federal authorities to take immediate and decisive action against the operation of these illegal casinos. Failure to act quickly and effectively could suggest collusion or complacency on the part of authorities with these illegal activities in Reynosa,” he stated.

The most recent case involves a location known as “Vireyes,” situated on Calzada Los Virreyes in the Medardo González neighborhood, in the city’s central zone. This adds to the existing case of “Punta Calabozo” in the Puerta del Sol plaza. Both locations were formally cited over a month ago but continue to operate with impunity.

“The economic impact of illegal casinos is significant compared to those operating legally and fulfilling their tax obligations. These establishments do not contribute to the region’s development or the creation of formal employment, representing unfair competition for companies registered with Juegos y Sorteos of the Segob,” the director pointed out.

Since the mid-2010s, the state has allowed the operation of these gambling sites, with locations in Reynosa and Tampico. However, numerous establishments classified as illegal have also been detected.