Citywide policing surge follows recent discoveries of underground currency exchange schemes and organised criminal activity tied to gambling venues
Macau’s law enforcement authorities have intensified policing efforts across the city in a bid to safeguard public order and ensure visitor safety during the peak holiday season. The heightened security presence comes amid growing concerns over illegal financial activities connected to gambling, following the recent exposure of an alleged unlawful currency exchange operation inside a Cotai casino hotel.
The latest winter security operation forms part of Macau’s routine law enforcement strategy during periods of increased travel and tourism. Coordinated by the Public Security Police Force (PSPF), the operation brought together officers from multiple units, including patrol divisions, intelligence services, special police teams and traffic police. This multi-departmental approach was designed to enhance surveillance coverage and respond swiftly to any threats to public safety.
Deployments were spread across several high-traffic districts known for elevated pedestrian and visitor flow. These included Macau’s central district, the NAPE area, northern Macau and the Cotai Strip, locations that typically experience significant crowd density during holiday periods due to tourism and casino activity.
In total, 244 officers were mobilised for the operation. Police conducted stop-and-check procedures and other lawful inspections in accordance with established operational protocols. Over the course of the initiative, 606 individuals were intercepted for inspection, comprising 416 men and 190 women. Authorities also stopped and checked 11 vehicles, although no traffic-related violations were identified.
During the operation, two men were detained on suspicion of involvement in illegal money exchange activities linked to gambling. Both cases have since been referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for further investigation.
Police officials noted that since illegal money exchange activities were formally criminalised last year, related offences have evolved. Operations are now reportedly more discreet, fragmented and mobile, prompting authorities to adapt enforcement tactics accordingly. Intelligence-led policing and risk assessments continue, particularly in response to ongoing changes in gaming operations under Macau’s regulatory framework.
Despite these challenges, authorities stressed that Macau’s overall public security situation remains stable. Similar targeted operations will continue to be carried out based on operational needs and assessments of public order.
In a separate case highlighting broader criminal concerns, police recently arrested 13 individuals accused of extorting casino-related “cross-hand” scam operators. The group allegedly collected approximately HK$800,000 (US$102,000) in hush money, underscoring the continued intersection between organised crime and illicit gambling activities in the city.
