Chinese Gambling Crackdown Continues with Massive Seizures

The Chinese crackdown on illegal gambling has concluded after a month-long operation. The multiple raids spanning from November 2 to December 2, 2023, led to the closure of numerous illicit venues and the arrest of hundreds of individuals, including a key figure suspected of laundering approximately HK$15 million ($1.9 million).

The operation was initiated in response to a series of violent incidents on the streets of Hong Kong's Special Administrative Region (SAR), particularly in the northern regions. This prompted the deployment of a dedicated anti-triad unit to intervene and curb the escalating violence.

The operation was concentrated in Sheung Shui, a region in the northern part of the SAR. The police force's efforts resulted in the arrest of 130 individuals, ranging in age from 20 to 75, including 64 men and 66 women.

Among those arrested was a suspect who claimed to be a beauty salon manager, accused of laundering HK$15 million.

In addition to the arrests, the operation led to the confiscation of cash, bank cards, and other items linked to criminal activities, amounting to HK$2.5 million ($320,000). The seized items are suspected proceeds from criminal activities.

In a related crackdown, 6,400 individuals were detained, and five gambling dens, as well as an illegal gas station, were dismantled. The seized evidence from these sites was valued at HK$410m ($52.4m).

The illegal gambling operations included a baccarat den, two mahjong dens, and two locations with fishing game gambling machines.

These establishments were primarily located in Sheung Shui and Ta Kwu Ling. Those arrested face charges for running unlicensed gambling establishments, engaging in gambling activities, and breaching the Dangerous Goods Ordinance and the Fire Services Ordinance.

According to Chief Inspector Au Yeung Tak of the New Territories North anti-triad unit, 21 people have been charged, some have been released on bail, and further arrests are possible.

In the previous month, nearly 2,000 officers were deployed to raid hundreds of entertainment venues across various districts, uncovering several suspected gambling dens and brothels, and resulting in the arrest of more than 300 individuals.