19 arrested for alleged football match-fixing

A total of 19 people, among them football players and coaches, have been arrested on suspicion of match-fixing and engaging in illegal gambling activities.

Speaking on Friday, ICAC principal investigator Bill Ng said the arrests revolved around a criminal syndicate run by individuals within the local football community that allegedly took illegal bets on local matches and the ongoing World Cup competition.

Two coaches and seven players are among those arrested.

Police added that a raid on the office of a football club in Mong Kok resulted in the arrest of a 51-year-old woman – believed to be one of the masterminds of the syndicate – and the seizure of HK$120,000 in cash.

Officers said the syndicate – which had been operating for two to three years and accepted estimated bets in excess of HK$6 million – has been smashed, but that further arrests may be made.

Investigations indicated the syndicate's activities had an impact on at least five local matches over the past two seasons.

In a statement, the Football Association of Hong Kong, China, said it was aware of operations carried out by law enforcement agencies and has kept in close contact with them to help curb such illegal activities and safeguard the integrity of the sport.

The association said it would continue to uphold the principles of integrity and fairness, and take appropriate measures to ensure smooth operation of matches in all divisions.

Edited by Edmond Fong ...