Macau lawmakers are urging the government to further clarify its stance on illegal mahjong operations, according to lawmaker Chan Chak Mo.
Local media outlet TDM reports that the Second Standing Committee of the Legislative Assembly (AL) is continuing discussions on a bill aimed at combating illegal gambling crimes.
Lawmaker Chan Chak Mo, president of the Second Standing Committee, stated that some lawmakers are concerned about illegal mahjong gambling operations, particularly in restaurants and clubs that provide venues for customers to play mahjong.
He cited the government’s explanation that the relevant crime targets unapproved profit-making operations. If a venue only provides a space for playing mahjong without charging for gambling activity, it does not constitute a crime. However, the committee still hopes the government can provide a clearer explanation.
The bill proposes that illegal online and offline gambling operations or mutual betting be subject to exceptions to the time restrictions stipulated in the Criminal Procedure Ordinance, allowing searches of residences between 9pm and 7am.
When asked why the exception is only introduced for illegal gambling, while money laundering, terrorism, national security threats, and organized crime remain exempt, the government representative responded that it will consider this and remains open to amending the Criminal Procedure Ordinance or introducing similar provisions for other crimes.
In addition, the bill targets the forgery, alteration, or use of gambling chips. The regulations are not limited to casino chips but cover all chips used for gambling, including mahjong.
