Crime

Police seize HKD1.8 million in crackdown on money exchange gang

In a joint operation, the Judiciary Police (PJ) and China’s Ministry of Public Security have cracked down on money exchange gangs operating in Macau.

Authorities seized 36 mainland Chinese suspects – 26 men and 10 women – and confiscated HKD1.8 million in cash, as well as HKD600,000 in casino chips.

The operation, launched in May, involved 180 detectives who raided several hotels and residential units in the Cotai area. Among those arrested was a foreign male employee confirmed to have illegally exchanged money in the guise of employment.

In a statement, the Ministry of Public Security emphasized that the large-scale crackdown was not in response to any recent high-profile cases.

Rather, the authorities have maintained ongoing communication and cooperation to combat cross-border crimes.

Last month, Beijing launched a major crackdown on “money exchange gangs” operating in Macau, targeting illegal foreign exchange activities linked to a surge in fraud, robbery and kidnapping. The government said the move is to curb the “arrogance of criminals” and disrupt the entire illicit network. Staff Reporter

Categories Macau