Macau’s Judiciary Police (PJ) have arrested 38 individuals involved in illegal money exchange activities in less than three weeks following the recent criminalization of such operations.
Speaking to local media, the Deputy Director of the PJ, Sou Sio Keong, revealed that as of last Friday (November 15th) authorities had uncovered 25 cases of illegal money exchange, seizing over HK$3.1 million ($398,400) in cash and casino chips worth HK$1.1 million ($141,400).
Sou highlighted the PJ’s enhanced response capabilities in recent years, particularly in handling major crimes. He noted that several high-profile cases, including incidents of murder and robbery, had been resolved within hours, while serious crimes and cross-border drug trafficking remain at low levels.

The PJ also noted that crimes affecting public welfare and those linked to the gaming industry have decreased compared to 2019, with organized illegal gambling syndicates largely eradicated, contributing to better public security in Macau.
According to official statistical data, 683 cases linked to the gaming sector were investigated in the first half of 2024, representing a 61.8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023. However, the number of cases remains nearly 30 percent lower than figures from the first half of 2019, before the pandemic.
The recent crackdown is part of broader efforts under the new Law on Illegal Gambling Activities, which took effect on October 29th. The legislation introduces stricter measures against unauthorized gambling operations, with a specific focus on illegal currency exchange for gambling purposes. Those found operating illegal money exchange schemes now face penalties of up to five years in prison.