This article details a recent major crackdown on illegal gambling operations in Hong Kong. Here’s a summary of the key points:

Hong Kong Police Crackdown:

• Police arrested 208 people in their latest operation against illegal gambling
• Those arrested included 15 property owners and an accountant
• Approximately $90,000 in cash and chips were seized during the raids

Evolution of Illegal Gambling Operations:

• Illegal gambling venues have become more sophisticated, offering high-end experiences
• They now use QR codes for online payments, making tracking transactions more difficult
• Many establishments have installed CCTV systems to provide early warnings of police raids
• Entry is now restricted to those with recommendations or referrals, allowing operators to screen customers carefully

Enforcement Challenges:

• Some property owners had received previous warnings but continued to allow gambling operations on their premises
• Police are targeting not just criminal organizations but also collaborators who provide venues or manage daily operations
• Despite penalties ranging from months for participants to years for operators, illegal gambling continues to thrive

Potential Regulatory Changes:

• Hong Kong is considering expanding its legal gambling market to combat the black market
• Currently, the SAR only allows regulated betting on horse racing, lottery, and football (soccer)
• There are discussions about potentially legalizing basketball betting due to the rise in illegal basketball gambling