"Operation Crackdown in Hong Kong: 17 Illicit Gambling Denis Shut Down, Over 200 Individuals Arrested by Police Forces"

In August 2025, Hong Kong police conducted a significant operation named "Wind of the Valley", marking a part of broader strategies to combat triads and dismantle their financial infrastructure. This operation, which ran from the 17th to the 21st of August, resulted in the shutdown of 17 illegal gambling establishments and the seizure of substantial assets.

The illicit gambling business, known for its involvement in substantial sums of money, has been a persistent issue in Hong Kong. This has led to fierce competition and outbreaks of violence among different illegal gambling groups. Operators of these businesses employed tactics such as QR-code payments, free 24/7 food, exclusive entry by referral, and most establishments were located in buildings without management organizations.

The police operation confiscated various gambling equipment, including slot machines, mahjong and baccarat tables, and other devices. Approximately HK$60,000 in cash was seized during the investigation, along with gambling chips worth around HK$700,000.

Senior Inspector Kwok Man-wai stated that the proliferation of e-payments and the complexity of these schemes pose significant challenges in combating existing underground casinos. To enhance security, surveillance systems were often found at the entrances of these illegal gambling establishments.

The battle against illegal gambling and law enforcement continues. It's important to note that Operation "Wind of the Valley" is not the first operation aimed at combating illegal gambling; similar operations have been conducted by police in the past. In December 2022, a large-scale operation during the World Cup led to the detainment of 1,104 people, and records of bets totaling over HK$560 million and cash exceeding HK$10 million were confiscated.

In July 2024, during UEFA Euro 2024, Operation "CROWBEAK"/"WINDSHIELD" resulted in the arrest of 735 people, and records of bets totaling HK$692 million and cash assets exceeding HK$2.5 million were seized. The operation also led to the arrest of 15 property owners, 4 tenants, and at least one person managing an electronic payment account.

Despite the challenges, the Hong Kong police remain committed to combating illegal gambling and maintaining the integrity of the city. The organization that conducted Operation "Wind of the Valley" is not explicitly mentioned in the search results, and there is no specific information on prior operations against illegal gambling in Hong Kong in 2024 or earlier within the provided data. However, the continuous efforts of the police serve as a testament to their dedication to upholding the law and ensuring a safer city for all its residents.

"Operation Crackdown in Hong Kong: 17 Illicit Gambling Denis Shut Down, Over 200 Individuals Arrested by Police Forces"