Police have arrested 103 people, and seized HKD586 million in betting records and HKD3 million in cash in a crackdown on illegal bookmaking during the Euro Football Championships between June and July.
The authorities also seized 57 computers, making it one of the biggest seizures for similar operations in recent years.
Of the 103 people arrested, 73 were male and 30 were female, between 16 to 66 years of age.
During the month-long championship, police executed two anti-illegal bookmaking operations very mysteriously codenamed “CROWBEAK” and “WINDSHIELD“.
Police searched 134 locations, resulting in 62 successful raids. During the operations, police worked with officials from mainland China, Macau and other overseas law enforcement agencies such as Interpol.
“Members of the public are advised by police not to engage in bookmaking or bet with a bookmaker, and report to police if they find any illegal booking activities,” said a government statement.
Here’s one bet we’re willing to make: that those 103 people now regret their gamble.
