6.99
(v)
72
a new offence of handling the proceeds of illegal bookmaking or illegal gambling could be
created. This offence would be similar in principle to the offence of handling stolen goods under section 24 of the Theft Ordinance, Chapter 210; and
It
(vi) there is a recent decision by the
Court of Appeal setting a principle of sentencing that those who operate gambling establishments or engage in book-making should receive an immediate custodial sentence accompanied by a heavy fine. is not uniformly applied by the magistrates. This principle of imposing deterrent financial penalties could be reinforced
[e.g. by introducing statutory minimum fines for first offences of book-making or operating a gambling establishment of, say, $50,000]. This approach could be used in conjunction with the provisions of forfeiture listed under section 26 of the Gambling Ordinance.
The issues involved are complex and
controversial. The administration is carrying out a general review of the Gambling Ordinance. These options will be considered in greater detail in the context of that review.
CHANGES IN THE LAWS GOVERNING VICE
AND VICE ASSOCIATED NUISANCES
The degree of triad involvement
6.100 The view taken by the Police is that triads are deeply involved in vice associated activity. Much of the crime involved goes undetected, or cannot be prosecuted without difficulty. Those involved do not readily reveal triad connexions. From time to time prosecutions of incidents of violence and blackmail involving persons associated with vice activity reveal triad ties. Prostitutes are intimidated into paying "separation fees" to their "protectors", when they want to leave the syndicate. Young girls are debased by youth gangs claiming triad affiliations to force them to work at fishball stalls.
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