Macau Police Deport 42 Illegal Money Exchange Dealers to Mainland China

October 25, 2024 ChinaMacau Crime & Legal

The Judiciary Police (PJ) of Macau recently arrested 42 members of a money exchange gang and seized approximately HK$3 million in cash during a joint operation. This crackdown highlights the increasing efforts by law enforcement to address illegal money-changing activities in the region, especially in light of the new “Illegal Gaming Law” that has been recently passed.

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On October 23, 2024, PJ deployed a force of 100 officers across various hotels and residences in the bustling Cotai area of Macau. This operation was a result of a collaborative effort between the PJ and mainland police. Authorities targeted the suspects, who were identified as being from various provinces, including Jiangxi, Jiangsu, Guangdong, Shandong, Beijing, and Jilin. Their ages ranged from 27 to 63 years old.

During the operation, police not only apprehended the suspects but also discovered a significant amount of cash, casino chips worth HK$160,000, and 56 mobile phones.

Following their arrest, the PJ superintendent handed over the suspects to mainland authorities at the Border Gate later that evening. This transfer marks another step in the ongoing cooperation between Macau and mainland law enforcement, aimed at curbing illegal activities that undermine the region’s reputation as a safe and secure destination for tourists and investors alike.

The group of 42 unlicensed dealers included 29 men and 13 women, ranging in age from 27 to 63. Among them, two were non-resident workers believed to be conducting unauthorized currency exchange in Macau under the guise of their jobs. Additionally, one dealer had been living illegally in a makeshift inn for nine months after overstaying their welcome in the region.

Macau has been increasingly focused on improving security, particularly in light of the passage of the new “Illegal Gaming Law.” This legislation, which received final approval from the Macau Legislative Assembly last week, is poised to come into effect the day after it is officially announced. It criminalizes money exchange gangs and introduces stringent penalties, including a maximum imprisonment of five years for those engaged in illegal exchanges for gaming purposes.

According to the PJ, the new law will empower them with the necessary legal framework to combat money exchange gangs effectively. The police have expressed their commitment to enforcing the law, stating that they will enhance daily patrols and increase collaboration with mainland authorities. This partnership is expected to create a more secure environment for both residents and visitors.

The crackdown on illegal money exchange operations is not a new initiative for Macau. Since the establishment of a special task force by the Ministry of Public Security in May, both Macau police and mainland public security have intensified their efforts to dismantle these gangs. In August 2024 alone, the authorities successfully handed over 47 suspected gang members to mainland law enforcement.