HK police arrests over 300 individuals in gambling dens

Hong Kong still has a problem with illegal gambling as authorities have taken tough measures against a range of establishments.

In November alone, several searches targeting brothels and casinos led to the arrest of more than 300 persons who were thought to be involved in illegal activities.

Recently, there have been almost 2,000 police officers working to stop triad activities. A new series of operations carried out as part of the campaign lasted into December, leading to the arrest of 130 people who were charged with money laundering and illegal gambling.

Aiming to combat illicit gambling and money laundering, Hong Kong police conducted investigations between November 2 and December 2. As a consequence, managers of beauty salons, bar owners, transport workers, and merchants were taken into custody.

One of the prisoners was identified as the alleged leader of a money laundering network, while the other four were believed to be members of a triad gang. This individual is accused of using many business bank accounts over the last 10 years to make over 600 transactions totaling large sums of money transfers.

Police authorities also closed an illegal petrol station and five illegal gambling dens during the recent raids. Among the games offered at the illegal gambling facilities were mahjong, baccarat, and gaming machines with fishing games. During the searches that were carried out in Sheung Shui and Ta Kwu Ling, 122 individuals between the ages of 20 and 75 were taken into custody. Bank cards, cash, documents, and an estimated HK$2.5 million ($320,000) in earnings from illegal activities were taken during the searches. According to Hong Kong police, some persons were released on bail, while others are being charged. More arrests may also be made.

Original story by: Gambling News