Police Arrest More Than 100 People in Hong Kong Gambling Raids
A major police operation in Yuen Long has uncovered a network of underground bars, casinos, and drug activity in one of Hong Kong’s most seedy areas.
Hong Kong officials arrest 122 in Hong Kong gambling raid.
Key Facts:
- Operation spearheaded by Hong Kong police special task force on gambling
- In excess of $500,000 worth of paraphernalia seized
- 122 individuals face charges, possible prison time and fines
In a sweeping enforcement campaign that concluded on April 10, authorities in Yuen Long dismantled a network of underground operations, arresting 122 individuals involved in illegal nightlife and narcotics activities. Charges against the accused are pending.
The two-week crackdown targeted clandestine venues that had long evaded detection, including three unauthorized gambling parlors, three makeshift bars operating without gaming licenses, and a facility linked to drug trafficking.
Those individuals apprehended range in age from 14 to 67 and face charges related to illicit gaming, illegal alcohol sales, drug production, and financial crimes such as money laundering.
More than $500,000 worth of alcohol and gambling paraphernalia was seized during the raids, a significant blow to the underground operations’ financial infrastructure. In the past, Hong Kong authorities have promised to crack down on illegal gaming operators.
Hong Kong’s gaming laws are among Asia’s strictest, favoring government-controlled betting through a single licensed operator while outlawing all other forms of commercial gambling.
With robust enforcement mechanisms, age restrictions, and a clear legal framework, the city aims to strike a balance between limited legalized gambling and public interest protections.
According to police, many of these establishments were housed in discreet locations such as industrial complexes and “three-nil” buildings—properties without owners’ corporations, residents’ organizations, or property management. These sites are often fortified with layers of security, including surveillance systems and controlled entry, to minimize risk of exposure.
“These operators are highly security-conscious,” a police spokesperson told news media in Hong Kong. “They typically only allow access to trusted patrons and utilize advanced monitoring systems to keep outsiders at bay.”
Authorities also noted that some of the venues had been fitted with noise insulation to prevent detection, making them nearly invisible to nearby residents. The crackdown underscores the ongoing challenge of rooting out illicit activities deep within urban areas, especially those involving organized crime syndicates.
Illegal gambling operators often are housed in locations that also serve as host sites for other illicit activity, such as drugs, stolen goods, and weapons. They pose a threat to consumers, who may not always recognize that other illegal activity is taking place until it’s too late.
Legal and illegal gambling in Hong Kong
Hong Kong maintains a strict regulatory framework for gambling and casino-style gaming. Unlike jurisdictions with a more open stance on commercial casinos, Hong Kong’s approach is highly controlled.
Most forms of gaming are either heavily restricted or outright prohibited under the Gambling Ordinance (so-called Cap. 148), which was enacted in 1977 and revised several times since.
Under the law, all gambling activities are illegal unless they fall under specific exceptions. The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) is the only licensed operator permitted to offer betting services.
Established in 1884, the HKJC operates under a government-granted monopoly to run horse racing bets, football betting, and lotteries (most notably the Mark Six lottery). These activities are tightly regulated and generate significant tax revenue for the Hong Kong government.
There are no legal casinos in Hong Kong. Any attempts to establish land-based or online casinos for public use are strictly prohibited. Operating or promoting illegal gambling services—including unauthorized betting websites—is a criminal offense. The government also regularly cracks down on underground gambling dens and unlicensed betting operations.
The Hong Kong Police Force, in coordination with the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, is responsible for enforcing gaming laws. Authorities closely monitor and investigate illegal gambling operations, especially those suspected to be linked to triad activity or money laundering.
Enforcement efforts include raids on illegal bookmaking operations, gambling dens, and unlicensed bars where illicit gaming often occurs.
To participate in legal forms of gambling, such as the lottery or horse betting through the Hong Kong Jockey Club, consumers must be at least 18 years old. This age restriction applies both to in-person wagering and online platforms operated by the HKJC. Operators are required to verify age and identity before accepting wagers.
Hong Kong also invests in problem gambling prevention through organizations such as Zhi De Centre, which provides counseling and support services. Public awareness campaigns often emphasize responsible gaming and the social consequences of illegal gambling.
