Hong Kong police arrest 210 people over swindling residents out of HK$330 million
- Police detain 138 men and 72 women aged between 15 and 80 after raiding 151 locations in 14-day crackdown
- ‘Criminal syndicates approached youngsters through online games and dating apps, and took advantage of their desires for quick pocket money,’ the force says
Hong Kong police have arrested 210 people in a two-week crackdown on fraud syndicates that allegedly tricked residents out of HK$330 million (US$42 million).
Chief Inspector Sung Ching-wai of the New Territories North technology and financial crime unit said on Wednesday the 138 men and 72 women were detained on suspicion of money laundering and fraud.
In the operation, code-named “Wavecruiser”, officers raided 151 locations and seized bank cards, related documents and mobile phones.
Sung said that during the crackdown that ended on Tuesday officers thwarted the transfer of HK$3.17 million in crime proceeds generated from deception.
“The 210 arrestees were linked to 152 reports of deception with financial losses reaching HK$330 million,” she said.
A source familiar with the case said the suspects, aged 15 and 18, included 208 holders of stooge accounts.