HK, Macau triad gangs expanding across border

Deputies representing Hong Kong and Macau urged the authorities in the province to step up efforts to fight rising cross-border crime.

They said in a meeting with Guangdong Vice-Governor Xu Deli that they were alarmed by reports that Hong Kong and Macau gangsters were expanding their operations in Guangdong, the semi-official China News Service reported.

Mr Xu is in charge of law and order in the province.

The deputies warned that gang leaders from Hong Kong and Macau had set their sights on Guangdong to expand their networks. 'Police officers at grassroots level should keep close tabs on triad members who have moved from Hong Kong and Macau and keep track of activities by individuals,' the deputies were quoted as saying.

'They must not be allowed to establish their 'business' on the mainland.' It was reported that the economic downturn had played a role in the gangsters' move.

Earlier reports said these gangs operated brothels and casinos and dealt in drugs. They had also recruited local gang members.