Hong Kong police have recently arrested a total of 335 people during a three-day operation targeting underground establishments suspected of being controlled by triads involved in illegal gambling and prostitution, according to local media reports on Saturday.
The law enforcement officers carried out early morning raids at 223 entertainment venues, including mahjong parlors, bars, nightclubs, recreational centers, and saunas, as reported by the Dim Sum Daily.
During the operations, authorities managed to seize weapons, 22 mahjong tables, gambling chips valued at an estimated HKD1.8 million, and small quantities of narcotics.
The individuals who were detained, ranging from 18 to 88 years old, are now facing various charges related to operating illegal gambling and brothels, possession of firearms, fraud, money laundering, property damage, and drug possession.
In the past year, Hong Kong has intensified its crackdown on organized crime, with targeted raids on entertainment establishments aimed at disrupting illicit activities associated with organized crime, such as illegal gambling and prostitution.
The funeral of “Tsz Tung’s” late father, a former leader of the historic Hong Kong triad “Wo Shing Wo” involved in extortion, drug trafficking, and prostitution, took place on November 9th. The event reportedly attracted a large number of individuals associated with these criminal groups and hundreds of mourners who gathered to pay their respects to the deceased.
This significant gathering and the potential for unrest prompted authorities to deploy anti-gang squad officers and the tactical unit of the West Kowloon Police District. Additionally, traffic control measures were implemented to manage the large crowds and prevent any potential disturbances.
