Guangdong–HK–Macau police arrest 160 in joint anti-vice operation

The Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau police forces arrested 160 people in a joint anti-vice operation on Monday targeting prostitution activities across the three regions.

Among them, Hong Kong police apprehended 66 individuals, including eight syndicate masterminds and key members, as well as mainland and foreign prostitutes and others suspected of managing vice establishments.

Authorities also intercepted about HK$1.2 million in suspected criminal proceeds and seized cash, rental agreements, utility bills, and mobile phones as evidence.

Officers from the Organized Crime and Triad Bureau launched the large-scale operation in Hong Kong on Monday. Investigations revealed that the syndicate had been using online platforms to advertise sexual services, charging advertising fees and taking commissions from prostitutes.

The group had allegedly been handling illicit proceeds through personal bank accounts since 2017.

Those arrested face charges including controlling persons for the purpose of unlawful sexual intercourse or prostitution, keeping a vice establishment, living on the earnings of prostitution, money laundering, and breaching stay conditions.

The suspects are expected to appear before Fanling Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday morning.