Rise in Gambling-Related Crimes in Macau Raises Public Safety Concerns
Increase in Gambling-Related Criminal Activities in Macau
In the latest judicial year of 2024–25, Macau has experienced a notable surge in criminal activities associated with gambling, as reported by Prosecutor General Tong Hio Fong during the Public Prosecutions Office’s annual briefing. The city continues to handle a large volume of criminal cases, with a concerning rise in offenses linked specifically to the gambling sector.
Statistical Overview of Criminal Cases
Authorities registered over 15,000 criminal cases, marking a slight 2% decrease compared to the previous year. Despite this overall decline, gambling-related crimes sharply increased to approximately 760 cases, nearly a 134% rise. This increase is largely attributed to the criminalization of illegal “money-changing gangs,” which alone accounted for 410 cases during this period.
Prosecutor General Tong emphasized that while law enforcement continues to combat these illegal activities, such operations are evolving, becoming more sophisticated and secretive. He urged government agencies to enhance public awareness initiatives, particularly targeting tourists, to discourage engagement with unauthorized currency exchange services and ensure the protection of Macau’s public security and financial systems.
Tourism and Diversification Efforts in Macau
Macau’s economy heavily depends on foreign visitors, especially through its diverse gambling enterprises. In efforts to attract more tourists, the city recently unveiled the first-ever medical resort within Studio City. This pioneering facility includes hospital amenities equipped with MRI and CT scan technology inside an integrated resort, aiming to combine medical services with leisure and tourism experiences.
Concerns Over the Shadow Economy and New Legislation
The Public Prosecutions Office completed a total of 15,204 cases in the 2024–25 judicial year with 3,766 advancing to prosecution and 11,113 being archived. There was also a 13% increase in cases related to family and juvenile protection, exceeding 1,000 cases.
The spike in criminal activities has brought renewed attention to Macau’s shadow economy, especially operations running parallel to its tightly controlled gaming industry. A significant legal development was the enactment of the Law to Combat Crimes of Illegal Gambling, effective from October 29, 2024, which criminalizes unlicensed money-changing activities. This law treats such offenses as criminal commercial acts, punishable by up to five years imprisonment and potential bans from casino entry ranging between two to ten years.
Judicial and Enforcement Challenges
Prosecutor Tong commended the dedication and professionalism of judicial officers amidst the rising caseload, highlighting their critical role in upholding Macau’s justice system. He also noted a resurgence in drug-related crimes, with increases in cross-border trafficking and synthetic drug use. Although overall drug offenses are still below pre-pandemic levels, there is an urgent need to strengthen law enforcement and improve preventive education, particularly among young people, to build a safer, drug-free community.
