In Hong Kong, authorities have carried out a series of raids targeting Triad-affiliated operations in a crackdown on illicit gambling activities linked to organized crime. Hundreds of individuals have been arrested in the coordinated efforts, marking a significant strike against the shadowy world of illegal gambling associated with Triad networks in the city.
According to media outlet Dim Sum Daily, the Hong Kong police conducted a three-day operation resulting in the arrest of 335 individuals. This crackdown is part of an ongoing effort to target underground establishments with suspected Triad involvement in illegal gambling and prostitution.
The police conducted early morning raids at 223 entertainment properties across Hong Kong, including bars, nightclubs, saunas, mahjong parlors, and other recreational venues. The raids led to the confiscation of weapons, mahjong tables, gambling chips valued at HKD1.8 million (US$230,580), and narcotics.
The detainees, ranging in age from 18 to 88, are facing charges related to operating illegal gambling and brothels, possession of firearms, fraud, money laundering, property damage, and drug possession. The arrests come in the wake of the funeral of the father of a former leader of the Hong Kong Wo Shing Wo triad known as “Tsz Tung.” The deceased was involved in activities such as extortion, drug trafficking, and prostitution.
The funeral drew a significant number of individuals associated with these criminal groups, and authorities deployed anti-gang squad officers and the tactical unit of the West Kowloon Police District to prevent potential unrest. Law enforcement is investigating both the attendance at the funeral and the attendance at the entertainment venues.
The Wo Shing Wo triad, one of the oldest and most prominent triad societies in Hong Kong, has a history dating back to the early 20th century. It has been involved in various criminal activities, including extortion, drug trafficking, illegal gambling, prostitution, and violent activities such as turf wars.
The triad’s reach extends outside of Hong Kong and China, with reported drug operations in Australia, Europe, Canada, and other countries. It is allegedly active in France where it controls the heroin trade alongside Albanian and Turkish gangs and is known as the largest criminal organization in the UK.
