Crown Resorts Chairman Robert Rankin said yesterday that the welfare of its employees was the company’s number one priority, but insisted no charges have been laid against the 18 people detained in China last week.
Speaking at Crown Resorts’ annual general meeting in Perth, Mr Rankin wasted no time in addressing last week’s incident which has seen a number of sales and marketing staff, including three high ranking Australians, held by Chinese authorities.
They stand accused of trying to lure Chinese players to Crown resorts properties to gamble, although Mr Rankin said they retained the right to a presumption of innocence.
“Our number one priority is to provide them and their families with all the support we can at this difficult time,” he said.
“Given the current lack of information available, it is not possible for anyone to be able to provide any informed commentary on these detentions. Likewise, any assessment at this time as to any material impact on our business is both premature and speculative.”
“No formal charges have been laid against our staff, the investigation continues and they are of course entitled to a presumption of innocence.”
Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop confirmed on Wednesday that consular officials have spoken to two of the three detained Australians.
