Australian Crown staff held in China over alleged ‘gambling crimes’

Three Australian Crown Resorts staff have reportedly been detained by police in China over alleged gambling crimes.

The employees are among 18 staff from the James Packer-owned gaming group’s sales and marketing team who were yesterday detained by local authorities .

China’s Foreign Ministry told ABC News the trio, which included a senior executive from Crown Casino Melbourne, were being held for “gambling crimes”.

Crown Resorts have reportedly been unable to make contact with the staff, but have initiated correspondence with the families of the accused.

"Crown is staying in close contact with and providing support to the families of our employees in China and Australia," a spokesman said to ABC News.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade told Australian Financial Review they were "aware" of the reports.

"Consular officials are seeking to confirm these reports with the relevant Chinese authorities," a spokesperson said.

Crown Resorts have two complexes featuring hotels and casinos in Macau, alongside properties in Melbourne and Perth.

Gambling is Macau’s primary source of revenue and makes up an estimated 50 percent of the economy, according to a report from the University of Macau.