Hong Kong and Chinese mainland law enforcers have smashed a cross-boundary syndicate engaged in faking identification documents and facilitating illegal labor in a months-long joint operation.
The crackdown led to the arrest of 119 suspects in connection with over HK$20 million ($2.56 million) in criminal proceeds, the Hong Kong Immigration Department announced on Thursday.
The operation, conducted jointly with Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department and the entry and exit administration department of Zhuhai city from October to January, yielded the highest number of arrests, the largest sum of money involved, and the greatest volume of seized forged documents, in such cases to date, according to Tang Ka-fai, senior principal immigration officer of enforcement in the department.
The case was first disclosed in August as mainland authorities uncovered the cross-border identity fraud syndicate, which used mobile messaging apps to establish groups and recruit mainland residents for illegal employment in Hong Kong.
The criminal group offered a one-stop service that included producing fake Hong Kong identity cards for around HK$3,200 each, arranging local dormitory beds at a monthly cost of HK$1,600 to HK$1,800, and assisting with job placements, which it used to lure mainland residents to work in Hong Kong illegally.
Through close intelligence sharing and analysis with Guangdong law enforcement authorities, Immigration Department investigators successfully identified a group of suspected illegal workers and their dormitories and workplaces in November.
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A total of 102 people, aged between 32 and 74 years old, were arrested following raids at 38 locations across Hong Kong. Two of those arrested are believed to be the syndicate’s mastermind and a core member, along with 83 suspected illegal workers, and 17 employers accused of hiring them.
Officers also seized 40 fake Hong Kong identity cards and 24 photocopies of the forged documents.
Having operated across the mainland and Hong Kong for approximately one year, investigations suggested that, including proceeds from illicit labor facilitation, the criminal operation involved more than HK$20 million in total.
On the mainland, 17 individuals were arrested, while two forgery workshops were smashed, and three pieces of forgery equipment were seized.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests have not been ruled out, officers said.
The department also warned that anyone using or possessing a forged Hong Kong identity card could face up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of HK$100,000 upon conviction. Illegal workers may be subject to a fine of up to HK$50,000 and imprisonment for up to three years. Employers who hire illegal immigrants risk a maximum fine of HK$500,000 and up to 10 years behind bars.
Contact the writer at stacyshi@chinadailyhk.com
