PJ arrest two mainland suspects in live-streamed casino betting scheme

The Judiciary Police (PJ) have arrested two mainland Chinese individuals suspected of operating an illegal live-streamed betting service inside a casino in the central district, marking the latest in a series of similar cases uncovered by authorities.

The suspects, a 36-year-old man who claims to be a driver and a 30-year-old woman who claims to be unemployed, were taken into custody on the evening of July 25.

The case has been referred to the Public Prosecutions Office.

According to police statements, authorities responded to a tip-off at around 9 p.m. and proceeded to the casino, where they intercepted the pair.

During the operation, authorities seized HKD94,000 in cash, five slot machine vouchers worth more than HKD24,000, as well as modified clothing, mobile phones, Bluetooth headsets, and magnetic swivel sticks.

Investigators allege that the two had been paid by third parties to provide proxy betting services.

The male suspect arrived at the casino at approximately 7:30 p.m. and met with the woman, who allegedly provided him with a modified garment featuring a hidden compartment.

He then placed a mobile phone inside the compartment and began broadcasting live footage of casino tables to gamblers on the mainland.

He would then place bets on their behalf based on instructions relayed through the live feed.

The woman, police said, was tasked with monitoring the broadcast and communicating betting instructions to the male suspect during the operation.

The extent of the operation – including the total number of clients involved, the aggregate value of bets placed, and the amount of compensation received by the suspects – remains under investigation.

Authorities have not disclosed whether additional arrests are expected as the investigation continues.