Violence
Violence is often used to enforce threats for protection, to gain 'face', and to enforce territory ownership. The serious injuries inflicted in choppings serve as warnings to others. The USA reports fights between 'Hong Kong born' and 'USA born' Chinese.
Vice
In the UK, Triad operated brothels exist in North London. They are 'good class' and invariably employ Far Eastern girls who net £12 - 15,000 a week for their services.
Armed Robbery
Triad organised robberies employing mainland China ex soldiers armed with military weapons commit robberies on jewellers in Hong Kong. These have resulted in street shoot outs. The profit to the perpetrator from one such robbery can render him and his family rich for life.
EXPANDING THREATS
Gambling and Loan Sharks
Given the Chinese propensity towards gambling and their strong belief in luck, a person in a casino on a losing streak will be approached by a loan shark who will suggest that the next bet will be the winning bet and loan Triad money to the gambler at extortionate interest rates. When unable to repay the loan, the gambler is forced to put his family into prostitution and commit crimes for the Triads. Debts are enforced with threats of violence. Such activity is of concern to the UK, where illegal gaming takes place in 'China towns' also the Chinese are known to frequent licenced casinos.
Money Laundering
Canada and obviously the UK, offering investment programmes to overseas residents (including Triads), are presenting opportunities for the laundering of illegal monies. The credibility of such investment programmes may become questioned.
Racial Discrimination
Canada reports a 'tide of resentment' and claims of racial discrimination are now becoming apparent.
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