114. The present day triad organization in Hong Kong exists only as individual splinter groups and gangs. Triad elements exploited the fact that the Force during 1967 was engaged on security duties and increased their activities including the recruitment of young persons. During the year under review the Bureau intensified their action against triads and investigations into the various fields of crime in which they operate.
115. Triad gang activities include the promotion of street gambling, prostitution, the distribution of narcotics at consumer level and all forms of extortion. During the year under review 277 triad cases were detected, an increase of 167 cases over 1967. Offenders were convicted for offences which included Robberies with aggravation, Demanding money with Menaces, Larceny from the Person, Living on the earnings of Prostitutes and Possession of Dangerous Drugs. There was an increase in the number of persons arrested who were between 16 and 21 years of age.
116. It has become apparent that the old traditional initiation ceremony of joining a triad society has to a great extent been abandoned and instead a much simplified system of verbal recognition has been introduced. Successful prosecutions have been brought against triad members who joined in this manner.
117. The Bureau directed special attention to the activities of young persons, especially those associating in groups and conducting them- selves in a manner which might lead to triad type behaviour. Close liaison was maintained with other Government Departments and organizations who are engaged in youth work.
Juvenile Liaison Office
118. During the year under review prosecutions for crime com- mitted by Juveniles (i.e. those under 16 years of age) numbered 1,012 representing 9% of the total number of persons prosecuted compared with 11.4% in the previous year.
119. In 1963 the Force adopted a system of dealing with first offenders amongst juveniles whereby they were not taken before the courts for their first offence. The offender is warned in the presence of his parents by a Superintendent and then handed over to the Juvenile Liaison Sections who visit him regularly and assist him in joining a youth group, gaining employment and helping him generally. The purpose of the scheme is not to delay the juveniles re-entry into crime
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