The special administrative region of Macau has introduced a pioneering new law aimed at combating illicit gambling. Under this law, individuals implicated in minor gambling offences may escape prosecution if they provide incriminating evidence against other parties. Instead of facing charges, these informants could see their penalties significantly reduced or even discarded.
The introduction of this law complements Macau’s strategic efforts to suppress illegal gambling and unlicensed operators. The legislation was unveiled last Friday and has successfully received the final green light from the Legislative Assembly. Furthermore, Chan Chak Mo, Chairman of the Subcommittee tasked with assessing the law, rectified ambiguous language that could have presented issues.
The law prohibits gambling activities from taking place in public venues. Clarifying what constitutes a ‘public place,’ Chan Chak Mo indicates that a broad range of locations would fall under this category. Violators could face penalties ranging from $190 to $620, once converted to US dollars.
As per the law, individuals found guilty of unlawful gambling at such venues would be deemed offenders. However, the provision of evidence leading to the apprehension of other parties involved or the central operator could grant these individuals immunity or a reduction in their penalty.
Macau’s Steadfast Commitment to Eradicating Illegal Gambling
Beyond the immunization of whistleblowers, the new piece of legislation permits legal authorities to search the properties of possible witnesses or suspects during night hours. This clause could vastly improve the government’s ability to clamp down on unlicensed gambling operations, as many such operations take place under the cover of darkness.
Before putting into place the enhanced detention measure, however, Macau will first need to update its Criminal Procedure Code. As noted by Chan Chak Mo, only serious offences punishable by eight years or more of imprisonment would be subject to detention extension.
This issue came into the spotlight following an attempt by Alvin Chau, chairman of the controversial Suncity junket, to assert that the detention periods in the Suncity case had run their course. Despite these protests, Chau’s detention period was prolonged.
Meanwhile, Macau’s gambling industry is in the process of rebounding, bolstered by the robust performance of the mass-market sector. Although hit hard by the pandemic, there is optimism surrounding the industry’s potential recovery.
Lastly, horse racing in Macau has reached the end of the line, with the Macau Jockey Club hosting its final races on Saturday, March 30.
