Macau winter security sweep sees 606 people intercepted across key gaming districts

Macau authorities have intensified year-end policing, intercepting 606 people during a coordinated winter security operation targeting public-order risks and gambling-linked crime across the city’s main tourism and casino zones.

Macau has stepped up enforcement as the year draws to a close, carrying out a large-scale winter security operation that saw police intercept and inspect 606 people citywide. According to details released by the Public Security Police Force, the campaign focused on areas with heavy pedestrian and visitor traffic, including the central district, NAPE, northern Macau and the Cotai Strip, and was designed to reinforce public order around gaming and entertainment venues during the festive period.

The operation was coordinated by the Public Security Police Force and deployed 244 officers from multiple divisions, including patrol units, intelligence services, specialist police units and traffic police. Over the course of the sweep, officers carried out systematic stop-and-check procedures and roadside inspections; 11 vehicles were stopped but no traffic offences were found.

In total, 606 individuals – 416 men and 190 women – were intercepted for identity checks and questioning. Two men were detained on suspicion of involvement in illegal currency exchange activities associated with gambling, with their cases referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for further investigation under recently strengthened laws criminalising unlicensed forex dealing linked to casinos.

Officials stressed that Macau’s overall security situation remains stable but warned that illegal money-changing operations have become more mobile and discreet since criminalisation, prompting a more intelligence-led approach. Authorities say similar targeted sweeps will continue as needed, underscoring that visible policing and regular enforcement around casino zones remain central to the city’s responsible-gambling and public-safety strategy.