Hong Kong police carried out two successful raids against illegal gambling activities in Mong Kok and Kwun Tong, according to reports. Both operations were led by district special duty teams following intelligence analysis and surveillance.
In Mong Kok, officers from the Special Duty Squad launched an operation codenamed Fullboom after gathering evidence of an unlicensed gaming venue inside a flat on Argyle Street. Police arrested a 63 year old local woman on suspicion of operating a gambling establishment and a 45 year old man accused of assisting in its management. Four local men and three local women aged between 25 and 85 were also detained for gambling inside a prohibited venue.
Officers seized one gaming table, cash amounting to roughly HK$10,000, gambling chips valued at about HK$240,000, and various pieces of betting equipment. All suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.
In a separate case the same day, Kwun Tong police raided an industrial building unit on Tsun Yip Lane after receiving tip offs about a fishing machine gambling den. Seven people were arrested, including a 49 year old male operator and several players. Among those detained were two mainland Chinese men aged 29 and 50.
Police confiscated five fishing game machines, a card reader, gaming cards, and about HK$2,000 in gambling proceeds.
Authorities reiterated that operating or assisting with an illegal gambling venue carries a maximum penalty of HK$5m and seven years imprisonment. Individuals found gambling inside such venues face fines of up to HK$50,000 and nine months imprisonment.
Police said enforcement will continue to target unlawful gambling operations across the city.
Under Hong Kong’s Gambling Ordinance, both operators and players face criminal liability regardless of whether the venue is commercial or makeshift
