China Tightens Grip on Cross-Border Gambling, Emphasizes Crackdown on Violent Crimes

China Cracks Down on Cross-Border Gambling and Related Crimes

The Supreme People's Court of China has issued a nationwide directive to maintain strict penalties for individuals involved in organizing cross-border gambling activities. This directive specifically emphasizes the need to crack down on violent crimes, such as intentional killings, linked to gambling.

The court highlighted the growing problem of overseas casinos enticing Chinese citizens to gamble, facilitated by economic and internet development. To combat this issue, the court urged all levels of courts to escalate efforts in combating organized gambling crimes abroad.

The directive cited several cases to illustrate the severity of the problem. In one instance, a ringleader of a gambling group was sentenced to six years in prison for orchestrating activities in Macao that resulted in over $41 million in profits from Chinese residents. Other members of the group received prison terms ranging from 30 to 36 months.

The court also emphasized the need to combat cross-border gambling syndicates and sever their financial networks. Additionally, the directive highlighted instances where criminals organized gambling activities abroad under the guise of tourism, urging the public to be aware of the legal implications and the seriousness of the offense.

The court further emphasized the detrimental consequences of gambling, citing cases where it led to financial losses, broken families, and even violent crimes. One example involved a gambler who, after accumulating substantial debt from online gambling, fatally shot another individual in a dispute over money. This individual was subsequently sentenced to death for intentional homicide.

Through this directive, the Supreme People's Court aims to deter individuals from engaging in cross-border gambling and associated crimes. The court emphasizes the need for strict enforcement and public awareness to address this growing problem and protect Chinese citizens from its harmful consequences.