Hong Kong authorities have arrested 19 individuals as part of an investigation into a covert betting ring that allegedly corrupted local football matches and engaged in illegal bookmaking. This operation, dubbed Operation Double Edged, was conducted on June 23 by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in conjunction with the Hong Kong Police.
Investigators suspect that members of this ring violated the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance by bribing players to influence game outcomes in their favor. During the operation, raids were carried out on an office, a private home, and a football club office in Mong Kok, leading to the seizure of HKD $120,000 in cash, betting slips, a laptop, and other electronic devices.
Bill Ng Siu Kei, the head investigator at the ICAC, stated that the syndicate utilized personal relationships within the Hong Kong football community to recruit players and bettors willing to fix matches. Police Superintendent Chiew Tsi-huen pointed out that the syndicate's leader had established multiple accounts with illegal online betting platforms, which were shared among various associates, including players who managed the betting funds.
Authorities estimate that the syndicate facilitated around HKD $6 million (USD $770,000) in illegal wagers on both domestic and international football events, such as those linked to the FIFA World Cup. The police believe that this syndicate is now defunct. Officials reiterated that running an illegal bookmaking operation could result in fines reaching HKD $5 million (USD $642,000) and up to seven years in prison under Hong Kong’s Gambling Ordinance.
