Organised Crime and Triads

Throughout the year, the fight against triads and organised criminal
syndicates continued. Operations were mounted against triad involvement
in public entertainment, prostitution, decoration-racketeering,
debt-collection, loan-sharking and other associated activities. Long-term,
intelligence-based and undercover operations resulted in many
prosecutions. Senior triad members were arrested and prosecuted for
various triad-related offences in several major operations.

Action against loan-sharks continued to be a high priority. Several
syndicates were neutralised and convicted.

The Organised and Serious Crimes Ordinance, which was fully
implemented in 1995, continued to enhance the Force's drive against
triads and organised crime. During 1997, the special investigative powers
were used in a number of major investigations.

During the year 782 money laundering cases were prosecuted and $7.9
million, being the proceeds of various crimes, was confiscated. A further
$40.6 million was under restraint pending court proceedings. Ten
investigations were launched into the channelling of the proceeds of
crimes committed overseas, into or through Hong Kong.

In addition, during 1997 there were 18 successful applications to the
courts to enhance the defendants' sentences in triad-related or serious
crimes.

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