The Judiciary Police convened with the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) and representatives from the six Macau gaming operators to discuss the implementation of the new “Law on Illegal Gambling Activities,” aimed at comprehensively addressing gambling-related criminal activities.
Law No. 20/2024, effective from October 29th, 2024, seeks to enhance measures against gambling-related crimes by imposing harsher penalties for “illegal lending for gambling” and introducing new offenses such as “operating illegal currency exchange for gambling.” These measures are designed to intensify efforts against illegal gambling activities.
According to a press release from the Judiciary Police published on WeChat Wednesday evening, a meeting was held on October 18th to discuss enforcement priorities following the law’s enactment. Key officials present included the head of the Judiciary Police’s Gambling and Economic Crime Investigation Department and the head of the Gambling Crime Investigation Division, along with relevant leaders from the Gaming Inspection Bureau.
On November 1st, a specialized meeting was held between the Judiciary Police and six gaming operators—MGM, Galaxy, Sands China, Melco Resorts, Wynn Macau, and SJM Holdings—to discuss prevention and combat strategies against illegal currency exchange crimes. This meeting involved several Judiciary Police officials and 17 representatives from the security and surveillance departments of these companies.
The discussions focused on optimizing intelligence sharing regarding illegal currency exchange and enhancing tripartite reporting mechanisms to proactively detect and address currency exchange crime risks both within and outside casinos.
Joint patrols enhance security in casinos
On the same evening, a joint operation involving 17 personnel from both the Judiciary Police and the Gaming Inspection Bureau was conducted across multiple casinos in Cotai. The operation involved security checks within these establishments. A total of 146 individuals were intercepted, with no illegal currency exchange or other crimes detected. However, three mainland residents overstaying their visas were handed over to public security authorities after an investigation.
The Judiciary Police emphasized that under the new law, conducting money exchange activities within or near casinos is presumed to be for gambling purposes. Violators may face up to five years in prison, with all funds or items related to such crimes confiscated for the benefit of the Macao Special Administrative Region.
The Judiciary Police reiterated their commitment to combating “money changers” and urged the public and tourists to use legal channels for currency exchange to avoid involvement in criminal activities.
The Judiciary Police emphasized that they will continue collaborating with the Gaming Inspection Bureau and gaming companies to proactively prevent gambling-related crimes and illegal activities. They will also regularly review and improve cooperation mechanisms, reporting procedures, and emergency plans to maintain order and security in casinos and surrounding areas.
