The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has ordered SMS Pariaz to immediately suspend all international betting activities, specifically concerning overseas horse racing and international football. This decision follows the discovery of irregularities in the company’s operations.
According to the GRA, SMS Pariaz was found to be engaging in activities that exceed the scope of its licensed operations. In accordance with Section 100 of the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, the company must halt all fixed odds betting related to:
- Horse racing conducted abroad
- International football
Jean-Michel Lee Shim, a prominent figure within SMS Pariaz, has recently come under scrutiny. Although he stated on our website on January 5, 2023, that he distanced himself from day-to-day operations and now serves only as a consultant, his influential role remains a point of contention.
Lee Shim is also known for his charitable work through his non-profit organizations, Solidarité Marye Pike (SMP) and Jean-Michel Lee Shim Cancer Care. However, he has faced political backlash, with accusations from the current government—previously the opposition—that he used his philanthropic efforts to support the Militant Socialist Movement (MSM). They allege he diverted hundreds of millions of rupees during the 2019 general elections, a claim he has firmly denied.
In a June 2022 interview on Au Cœur de l’Info, Lee Shim acknowledged spending 10 million rupees during the election campaign, expressing his support for the Alliance Morisien. He stated, “Pravind Jugnauth has no political rival of his size.”
As SMS Pariaz navigates this unexpected order, the future of its operations remains uncertain.
About SMS Pariaz
SMS Pariaz is a prominent betting company involved in providing various wagering options, including horse racing and football betting. The company has gained recognition for its services in the gambling industry.