Triads
There is a great deal of nonsense spoken about triads. Much of this propagated by movies, that seek to glorify them. Then certain sections of the media exaggerate their exploits and influence. But, let's be clear, they are a serious threat to law and order. Their influence is detrimental to society as they do terrible things. Yet, these criminals can be defeated. Also, that public image bears little resemblance to the grim reality of their existence.
The accouterments of flashy cars and pretty women are things that few triads can afford. Most reside with their parents, are under-achievers, inept social outcasts and losers. They enjoy poor health, a limited life expectancy and no peace of mind.
Only a few manage to climb the ladder, to enjoy the spoils of their trade retiring in relative comfort. It is important to understand this. A false myth of invincibility that has grown around their activities. It is also true to say that in recent years, with tighter controls on money flows they are struggling. Anti terror funding legislation has seen the triads suffer collateral damage.
History records the first appearance of the triads in about 1647. They took part in an effort to overthrow the Manchu rulers of China. This finally came about with the formation of the Republic in 1912 as Dr Sun Yat-sen proclaimed the defeat of the Manchus. The acknowledged role that the triads played in that process earned them respect. Nonetheless, officials hoped for their disbandment.
Unfortunately, the triads did not opt to follow that plan. By now they had grown to wield considerable power, with a sizable income from criminal activity. It was soon evident that they intended to take their place in the new Republic of China. They made inroads into all sectors of society. For a time enjoying a good degree of respectability.
Then China slipped into a period of instability. The Nationalists fought the Communists. Then both fought the Japanese. All sides recognised the potential of the triads, seeking to use them for their ends. And the triads were well placed to enjoy the turmoil.
In 1926, MAO described the triads as " beneficial people's mutual aid groups." This blatant attempt to praise aimed to draw them into his sphere of influence. This worked with some. He put them to good use. Meanwhile, in the 1940s, the Nationalists deployed the triads to fight the Communists. The Nationalists staged large-scale triad initiation ceremonies. Thousands of police officers, soldiers, civil servants and other personnel joined.
There is evidence that the Japanese employed them during the occupation of China. Acting as proxies to control the local population. None of this should come as a surprise. Various governments throughout history have cooperated with the triads. In modern times they served to protect Chinese officials overseas. The British rulers of Hong Kong proved capable of turning a blind eye when their interests coincided with those of the triads. A mutual pact formed.
The active use of the triads against an opponent reached its height in late 1941. With the Japanese invasion underway, the British retreated to Hong Kong Island. This was their last stand. Triads were co-opted to help the resistance. On Christmas eve they received revolvers and grenades as presents. They formed themselves into so-called suicide squads. Although, I can find no evidence of any attacks having taken place against the Japanese.
Hong Kong felt the influence of the triads long before 1842 when the British arrived. Gang members fled south to Guangdong to avoid purges as Beijing exerted control. Distance created protection under the premise “the mountain is high, and Emperor far away.” In the process, they brought their criminal activities with them.
With the arrival of the British, the locals bonded against the foreign devils. The triads proved a natural rallying point. They gave leadership and structure, providing a form of unofficial governance. Their authority gave a degree of protection for the populace. After all, the colonial police only sought to protect British interests.
The power and the influence of the triads did not go unnoticed to the new British rulers of Hong Kong. It soon became evident that the triads represented a potential threat. Thus by 1845, three years after the formation of the colony, legislation was in place to outlaw the triads.
In reality, there was little impact. In a swift move they transferred their activities. They merged with trade guilds, clansman associations, sports clubs and other lawful societies. These organisations provided the ideal cover. Even today, the triads seek to use such bodies to veil their activities.
By 1941 Hong Kong faced the threat of Japanese invasion. Concerned that triads would be a ‘fifth column’ the British acted. Again, despite vigorous action, including mass arrests, the triads remained in place. The British then switched tactics to arm the triads against the Japanese.
Never ones to miss an opportunity, the triads soon allied themselves to the victorious Japanese. Their support for the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong was hardly covert or nuanced. Money was immediately made available to form the "Peace Aid Corp." This de-facto police force carried out enforcement action on behalf of the Japanese. This freed the Japanese from the nuisance of managing the local citizens.
As payment, the triads continued with their criminal activity. As long as these did not impinge on Japanese interests. In reality, this left the local citizens at the mercy of the triads. Great profits came their way.
Moreover, the role that the Japanese granted them had long-term consequences. This was the foundation of their legitimate status with Hong Kong's underclass. Throughout the Japanese occupation, the triads operated with impunity. They controlled the black-market and the opium trade. Whilst extorting anyone who wanted to do business.
There are reports that they even exploited those held in civilian internment camps. They smuggled in items of food. Payment made by whatever means the wretched detainees could afford.
By November 1945, three months after liberation, the Special Branch was working on the triad issue. The months after the Japanese surrender had seen widespread looting across the colony. This was soon brought under control by police and military patrols. Of immediate concern was the number of guns circulating. The Japanese had given away arms with the announcement of surrender. One estimate suggested 7,000 small arms disappeared.
The Special Branch identified three groups of concern. The Gambling House Gang, the Chungking Gang and the Triads. The Gambling House Gang, as the name suggests, ran the gaming houses. The Japanese had granted the leader of the group, Wan Tuck-ming, the rights to these premises. In return his 3,000 strong gang would assist with law enforcement. In a brazen act, after the surrender of the Japanese, Wan offered his services to the British on the same terms. His offer was refused. Although, the few British police felt somewhat vulnerable. Wan had more armed people at his disposal than the police.
Persuaded to break up his gang, Wan departed Hong Kong. Paid off after providing details of potential troublemakers. The Brits were happy to see him gone.
The Chung King Gang was a different proposition. It had its origins in the Free China movement. With 2,000 armed members in Hong Kong by 1943, they sought to murder Japanese officials. On the departure of the Japanese, the gang emerged into the open. It worked with the struggling Hong Kong Police to maintain order.
Members had armbands to identify them, conferring an official status. Unfortunately, some used this for criminal ends. This brought them into conflict with the already stretched police. The group had its status dropped, with the armbands removed and collected. Whilst a few continued their criminal activities, most returned to the Mainland.
Special Branch estimated before the arrival of the Japanese, 60,000 triads operated in Hong Kong. By 1945, this number was down. However, any estimates are inaccurate given the lack of available intelligence. What is certain is that the triads had access to firearms.
An arms amnesty is announced, with threats of severe penalties for non-compliance. Working with the military, the police conduct searches aimed at recovering the guns. These efforts bore fruit with guns handed in, seizures and finds. Nonetheless, a considerable number of firearms remained in circulation. These would continue to pop up for decades to come.
By 1947 concern was growing that the triads had managed to consolidate their position. They had tight control of much of the criminal activity in the colony. It was thus decided to establish a Special Investigation Bureau.
By now, in the late 1940s, the continuing civil war on the Mainland was displacing people. Hong Kong had an increased flow of refugees. Amongst these people were triads. Some had before held sway in Shanghai and other major Chinese cities. These new arrivals reverted to their known trade. A significant jump in the heroin supply was seen. Further, these new arrivals encroached on the activities of local gangs. They did not take kindly to the competition. This soon led to gang fights as the societies sought for dominance.
The police were not discouraged by these developments. It indicated no single group was dominant. Efforts made by undercover agents to divide the fractions also proved fruitful. Meanwhile, the wiser heads in the triads understood that violence played into the Police's hands. They also risked alienating the local population. Meetings and settlement talks started. The fighting eased as an uneasy peace settled.
In 1956 Hong Kong experienced a period of serious civil disorder. This led to widespread looting in Kowloon. The Police needed to use firearms to restore order in Sham Shui Po, whilst the British Army shot dead six. Triads groups exploited this political unrest to orchestrate much of the looting. Moreover, with the Police busy the triads were free to extort people. .
This episode once again highlighted the triad threat. Also, the seeming inability of the Police to curtail their illegal activities. In response a crack-down began towards the end of 1956, that ran through 1960.
The record shows the arrest of over 10,000 triad officials and foot-soldiers. Some 600 faced deportation from the colony. Others were detained in prisons and camps under Emergency Regulations. These robust measures had the desired effect. Triad related offences declined, although they never went away.
The Police trumpeted this success. In a 1960 report, the Commissioner was candid enough to admit the Colony was home to 500,000 Triads. Even so, he was quick to point out, the majority remained inactive. The veracity of this assessment is questionable. Given the corruption at the time with triads in the police, such data is doubtful. The fact is the Triads retained their core infrastructure. But at least more professional investigation came with the new Triad Society Bureau.
In the early 1960s some headway was being made to tackle the Triad menace. The once tight groups were showing signs of fragmenting. This work faltered with the onset of civil unrest in 1966. This escalated to full-blown rioting in 1967. With the police again distracted, the Triads enjoyed a period of relative freedom. Even the Triad Society Bureau got reassigned. It became the Bomb Investigation Unit.’ With the pressure off, the triads saw an opportunity and took it.
Almost immediately the police recorded a significant increase in gang-fights. The various groups fought to position themselves. This situation was to continue unchecked until about mid-1968. Recovering from its exertions, the Police managed to get some focus on anti-triad work.
The next notable event was the formation of the ICAC. This resulted in a purge of corrupt police officers. As the purge gathered pace in 1976 and 1977, it drove out police officers who had triad connections. This had immediate benefits, including lessening the opportunity to compromise operations.
The current state of play with the triads is as dynamic as it ever was. In the past 30 years, it is significant that the Sun Yee On has emerged as a leading player.
Of the current groups most active are:
Sun Yee On (新義安) ; a relative newcomer in Hong Kong. Formed in 1919. This group was first based in eastern Guangdong. When the founder and leader of the group got deported to Taiwan in the 1950s, members spread to Hong Kong. A police assessment from the early 1970s portrayed the Sun Yee On as a minor sub-group within the larger Chiu Chau grouping. Yet, from the 1980s onwards the Sun Yee On expanded its activities. Its geographical interest where in West Kowloon and Tsuen Mun. Since the handover in 1997, the Sun Yee On has adopted a lower profile. There are signs it is moving into legitimate businesses with expanding interests on the Mainland.
14K (十四K); formed as an anti-communist action group by a Kuomintang General in 1945. The origins of its name are in dispute. With the KMT defeated in 1949, the group fled to Hong Kong. The 14K saw rapid growth, with many sub-groups forming. These came into conflict with each other. In recent years the 14K has engaged in disputes with the Sun Yee On and other groups
Wo Shing Wo (和勝和) ; a home-grown Hong Kong group. Thought to have formed in the Sham Shui Po area in 1930, it now operates from Tsuen Wan. Its influence extends across Hong Kong. Over the past decade, the Wo Shing Wo has moved into some areas seen as the domain of the Sun Yee On. In another telling development, control of the Wo Shing Wo has fragmented. It does not have a single Dragon Head, with two people currently holding that designation. These individuals do not get along, which in turn has led to sub-groups engaging in attacks on each other. The Dragon Heads are unable or unwilling to broker settlement talks.
Wo On Lok or Shui Fong (水房幫) ; this group started life in the 1930s as a union at a soft drinks company in Sham Shui Po. Hence the name Shui Fong or “water room”. Shui Fong has engaged in internal disputes over leadership. This led to violence between 2009 and 2011. Besides, the group has challenged others including the 14K in Macau.
Wo Hop To (和合圖) ; this Aberdeen based group is retro. Their adherence to triad traditions, including retaining a single Dragon Head is unusual. They formed in about 1908 as a political group. The overseas fraction of this group is San Francisco based. It has been aggressive in pushing other groups out of the city.
The traditional structure of the triad gang is portrayed thus:
This linear hierarchy was true during the period when most triads formed. It has since fallen from use. Such a clear, well-defined, structure, with distinct lines of command facilitates control. Also, such a structure provides an easy job for law enforcement. As you follow the money flow through the group to take out the key players. Further, a single Dragon Head allows pressure to exerted at one point for greatest impact. As such, this structure was never going to survive against determined police action.
With the possible exception of the Wo Hop To, triad command structures are now more loose. With many Dragon Heads a networked arrangement evolved. Some groups have even opted out of the defined roles. These adopted matrix type models for their operations. The use of these flexible structures has had consequences. Loosening control led to less loyalty within groups. This allowed young pretenders and hotheads to challenge the bosses. Plus, independent action taking place.
The smarter gang bosses recognised this meant more unwelcome police attention. So they sought to mitigate this by restraining their members. On occasions, they'd leak information to the police to take out troublemakers.
An attack on a journalist in 2014, prompted sustained police action against the Wo Shing Wo. This included frequent raids on bars, nightclubs and their commercial interests. This effort was effective. It compromise the group's cash flows, as the public opted to stay away from venues seen to be Wo Shing Wo affiliated. With income hit, the Wo Shing Wo sought to distance itself from the attack. They came forward with information.
In many regards, the old triad structures have completely disappeared. Today, the relationship is between the ‘Big Brother’ and immediate followers. The Big Brother may have an affiliation above him, but he may not. Further, groups adopt names such as ‘Jordan Market Wo Shing Wo. ’ This asserts their geographical home.
Likewise, the complicated initiation ceremonies of the past are no more. These days a quick ritual is the norm. Groups will also cooperate if it serves their interests by allowing everyone to get their beaks wet. Collaboration is more frequent these days as the old allegiances recede.
The public, with its perception shaped by the movies, believe the triads have lucrative businesses. For some the truth is much more prosaic. In April 2013, Tsuen Wan Police dealt with an escalating dispute between the Sun Yee On and Wo Shing Wo. This centered on the distribution of rice boxes to workers at the Science Park in Shatin. The sums involved were not much.
A local Wo Shing Wo figure had the monopoly on rice box supply. He dispatched these from his Tsuen Wan cooked food shop to Shatin. Sun Yee On characters in Shatin felt this was an affront to their authority, as they claimed control of the area. Threats got ignored and then the Sun Yee On acted by roughing up the Wo Shing Wo guys dropping off the rice boxes. After a failed attempt at negotiations, a car rammed into the Tsuen Wan shop. All the players involved were soon rounded up, whilst the rice box business passed on to someone else.
Another case involved a gang attacking their rivals over a 16-year old girl. Trouble started when she switched her affections. Hardly the stuff of big league players. Nonetheless these incidents could prove serious as the bravado of the attack can get out of hand.
The triads do enjoy a steady incomes from extorting PLB drivers. Extortion of shopkeepers occurs and providing bouncing services is gainful . But the more astute have taken advantage of the burgeoning gambling scene in Macau. Running private rooms catering for high rollers is profitable. Whilst the foot soldiers gain from loansharking, debt-collection and associated activities. Those with connections on the Mainland have sought to focus their operations there. Operating semi-legal enterprises connected to corrupt officials.
The events of 9/11 had a profound impact on triad operations. In the scramble to appease America, countries enforced money laundering legislation. As a byproduct of this criminal gangs found it harder to move their illicit funds. The draconian powers given to law enforcement were applied at a local level. Street-level toughs had to explain how they came about their income without regular employment. Such measures began to hit the front-line triads hard.
In a coordinated manner, each Police District selected a target. Investigated him, prosecuted and then moved on to the next. More than ever the triads understood the need to keep a low profile to avoid unwelcome attention. One triad boss revealed to me that money laundering laws caused him the biggest worry. In response, he was seeking to turn legitimate as he assessed the risks as too high.
Only a foolhardy police officer claims ‘to have smashed the triads.’ In reality, the battle is constant. Shifting focus, full of challenges and relentless. While statistics are showing a steady decline in triad-related activity. The figures only tell part of the story. I also heard much anecdotal evidence to suggest a decline. This includes shopkeepers stating they experienced no soliciting of lucky money over Chinese New Year. Whilst sex workers (always a vulnerable group) have reported fewer attempts to extort them.
Nonetheless, vigilance is needed as unseen triad activity is going on and the extent is unknown. Debt collection, including damage to homes to intimidate non-payers, is a good indicator. Likewise, random assaults in bars and nightclubs need to seen in context. To this end, the battle continues.
In the late 1980s, the government ran a triad renunciation scheme. You could have your history reviewed and records expunged by a tribunal. This allowed a fresh start. The scheme operated for about two and half years before it stopped. Some 1,100 triad members applied to renounce their allegiance. Only 600-odd succeeded.
The approach of 1997 motivated some. With their families departing, the scheme cleared their records. Criminal records prevented emigration. The demise of the scheme was never accounted for by the government. I do know that foreign governments took a dim view. Hong Kong-based triads could cover their tracks before heading overseas. Once in their adopted country, it was business as usual.
On a related note, I’ve seen ill-considered and naive attempts by church groups to intervene for triads. In one instance, a Christian group adopted a young triad into their congregation. They worked to protect him from police attention. I received a steady stream of letters asserting the young man had seen the light. He'd taken God to foreswear his bad ways. Meanwhile, he was trafficking drugs at Church sessions. That's when not busy de-flowering young ladies. His Pastor berated us for the arrest of this convert. He never had the decency to apologise when the truth came out in Court.
It’s a notable phenomenon that a good number of triad leaders purport to be devout Christians. This was first seen in the 1900s. Even in modern Hong Kong, triad bosses have talked about their religious views. The cynical may argue that the Church offers some form of forgiveness for the life these men lead. It would make an interesting study to understand the motivation for such conflicting behaviours.
So, in summary, the triads were never the monolithic institutions the media seeks to portray. The reality is more complex, dynamic and intriguing. It continues to evolve in the modern world. These days the smart triads are seeking to minimise their exposure to law enforcement. Turning to legitimate business to supplement and mask illegal activities. Yet always ready to use their muscle when the situation merits. Meanwhile, control of the on-street thugs is declining. This presents a new challenge for the police, as they seek to keep gang activity in check.
A few triads have managed to gain a position in society that accords them respectability. They move in what passes for polite company. These men appear to have foregone their old ways, using power and money to gain influence. Whether they have fully detached from their former triad connections is open to debate.
Returning to my opening observation, the majority don’t make the transition to a ‘better tomorrow'. This is especially true of those who get involved with drugs. A visit to Yue Man Square, in the industrial area of Kwun Tong, is telling. Groups of old men with haunted eyes, frail bodies, gather around. They waste their days on card games. A good number of these were serious triad players some two or three decades ago. Their power and ability to threaten people long gone with their declining health. Twice a day this impotent human wreckage shuffles off to collect methadone. This is the boneyard for grizzled triads, who failed to make the cut.
The accouterments of flashy cars and pretty women are things that few triads can afford. Most reside with their parents, are under-achievers, inept social outcasts and losers. They enjoy poor health, a limited life expectancy and no peace of mind.
Only a few manage to climb the ladder, to enjoy the spoils of their trade retiring in relative comfort. It is important to understand this. A false myth of invincibility that has grown around their activities. It is also true to say that in recent years, with tighter controls on money flows they are struggling. Anti terror funding legislation has seen the triads suffer collateral damage.
History records the first appearance of the triads in about 1647. They took part in an effort to overthrow the Manchu rulers of China. This finally came about with the formation of the Republic in 1912 as Dr Sun Yat-sen proclaimed the defeat of the Manchus. The acknowledged role that the triads played in that process earned them respect. Nonetheless, officials hoped for their disbandment.
Unfortunately, the triads did not opt to follow that plan. By now they had grown to wield considerable power, with a sizable income from criminal activity. It was soon evident that they intended to take their place in the new Republic of China. They made inroads into all sectors of society. For a time enjoying a good degree of respectability.
Then China slipped into a period of instability. The Nationalists fought the Communists. Then both fought the Japanese. All sides recognised the potential of the triads, seeking to use them for their ends. And the triads were well placed to enjoy the turmoil.
In 1926, MAO described the triads as " beneficial people's mutual aid groups." This blatant attempt to praise aimed to draw them into his sphere of influence. This worked with some. He put them to good use. Meanwhile, in the 1940s, the Nationalists deployed the triads to fight the Communists. The Nationalists staged large-scale triad initiation ceremonies. Thousands of police officers, soldiers, civil servants and other personnel joined.
There is evidence that the Japanese employed them during the occupation of China. Acting as proxies to control the local population. None of this should come as a surprise. Various governments throughout history have cooperated with the triads. In modern times they served to protect Chinese officials overseas. The British rulers of Hong Kong proved capable of turning a blind eye when their interests coincided with those of the triads. A mutual pact formed.
The active use of the triads against an opponent reached its height in late 1941. With the Japanese invasion underway, the British retreated to Hong Kong Island. This was their last stand. Triads were co-opted to help the resistance. On Christmas eve they received revolvers and grenades as presents. They formed themselves into so-called suicide squads. Although, I can find no evidence of any attacks having taken place against the Japanese.
Hong Kong felt the influence of the triads long before 1842 when the British arrived. Gang members fled south to Guangdong to avoid purges as Beijing exerted control. Distance created protection under the premise “the mountain is high, and Emperor far away.” In the process, they brought their criminal activities with them.
With the arrival of the British, the locals bonded against the foreign devils. The triads proved a natural rallying point. They gave leadership and structure, providing a form of unofficial governance. Their authority gave a degree of protection for the populace. After all, the colonial police only sought to protect British interests.
The power and the influence of the triads did not go unnoticed to the new British rulers of Hong Kong. It soon became evident that the triads represented a potential threat. Thus by 1845, three years after the formation of the colony, legislation was in place to outlaw the triads.
In reality, there was little impact. In a swift move they transferred their activities. They merged with trade guilds, clansman associations, sports clubs and other lawful societies. These organisations provided the ideal cover. Even today, the triads seek to use such bodies to veil their activities.
By 1941 Hong Kong faced the threat of Japanese invasion. Concerned that triads would be a ‘fifth column’ the British acted. Again, despite vigorous action, including mass arrests, the triads remained in place. The British then switched tactics to arm the triads against the Japanese.
Never ones to miss an opportunity, the triads soon allied themselves to the victorious Japanese. Their support for the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong was hardly covert or nuanced. Money was immediately made available to form the "Peace Aid Corp." This de-facto police force carried out enforcement action on behalf of the Japanese. This freed the Japanese from the nuisance of managing the local citizens.
As payment, the triads continued with their criminal activity. As long as these did not impinge on Japanese interests. In reality, this left the local citizens at the mercy of the triads. Great profits came their way.
Moreover, the role that the Japanese granted them had long-term consequences. This was the foundation of their legitimate status with Hong Kong's underclass. Throughout the Japanese occupation, the triads operated with impunity. They controlled the black-market and the opium trade. Whilst extorting anyone who wanted to do business.
There are reports that they even exploited those held in civilian internment camps. They smuggled in items of food. Payment made by whatever means the wretched detainees could afford.
By November 1945, three months after liberation, the Special Branch was working on the triad issue. The months after the Japanese surrender had seen widespread looting across the colony. This was soon brought under control by police and military patrols. Of immediate concern was the number of guns circulating. The Japanese had given away arms with the announcement of surrender. One estimate suggested 7,000 small arms disappeared.
The Special Branch identified three groups of concern. The Gambling House Gang, the Chungking Gang and the Triads. The Gambling House Gang, as the name suggests, ran the gaming houses. The Japanese had granted the leader of the group, Wan Tuck-ming, the rights to these premises. In return his 3,000 strong gang would assist with law enforcement. In a brazen act, after the surrender of the Japanese, Wan offered his services to the British on the same terms. His offer was refused. Although, the few British police felt somewhat vulnerable. Wan had more armed people at his disposal than the police.
Persuaded to break up his gang, Wan departed Hong Kong. Paid off after providing details of potential troublemakers. The Brits were happy to see him gone.
The Chung King Gang was a different proposition. It had its origins in the Free China movement. With 2,000 armed members in Hong Kong by 1943, they sought to murder Japanese officials. On the departure of the Japanese, the gang emerged into the open. It worked with the struggling Hong Kong Police to maintain order.
Members had armbands to identify them, conferring an official status. Unfortunately, some used this for criminal ends. This brought them into conflict with the already stretched police. The group had its status dropped, with the armbands removed and collected. Whilst a few continued their criminal activities, most returned to the Mainland.
Special Branch estimated before the arrival of the Japanese, 60,000 triads operated in Hong Kong. By 1945, this number was down. However, any estimates are inaccurate given the lack of available intelligence. What is certain is that the triads had access to firearms.
An arms amnesty is announced, with threats of severe penalties for non-compliance. Working with the military, the police conduct searches aimed at recovering the guns. These efforts bore fruit with guns handed in, seizures and finds. Nonetheless, a considerable number of firearms remained in circulation. These would continue to pop up for decades to come.
By 1947 concern was growing that the triads had managed to consolidate their position. They had tight control of much of the criminal activity in the colony. It was thus decided to establish a Special Investigation Bureau.
By now, in the late 1940s, the continuing civil war on the Mainland was displacing people. Hong Kong had an increased flow of refugees. Amongst these people were triads. Some had before held sway in Shanghai and other major Chinese cities. These new arrivals reverted to their known trade. A significant jump in the heroin supply was seen. Further, these new arrivals encroached on the activities of local gangs. They did not take kindly to the competition. This soon led to gang fights as the societies sought for dominance.
The police were not discouraged by these developments. It indicated no single group was dominant. Efforts made by undercover agents to divide the fractions also proved fruitful. Meanwhile, the wiser heads in the triads understood that violence played into the Police's hands. They also risked alienating the local population. Meetings and settlement talks started. The fighting eased as an uneasy peace settled.
In 1956 Hong Kong experienced a period of serious civil disorder. This led to widespread looting in Kowloon. The Police needed to use firearms to restore order in Sham Shui Po, whilst the British Army shot dead six. Triads groups exploited this political unrest to orchestrate much of the looting. Moreover, with the Police busy the triads were free to extort people. .
This episode once again highlighted the triad threat. Also, the seeming inability of the Police to curtail their illegal activities. In response a crack-down began towards the end of 1956, that ran through 1960.
The record shows the arrest of over 10,000 triad officials and foot-soldiers. Some 600 faced deportation from the colony. Others were detained in prisons and camps under Emergency Regulations. These robust measures had the desired effect. Triad related offences declined, although they never went away.
The Police trumpeted this success. In a 1960 report, the Commissioner was candid enough to admit the Colony was home to 500,000 Triads. Even so, he was quick to point out, the majority remained inactive. The veracity of this assessment is questionable. Given the corruption at the time with triads in the police, such data is doubtful. The fact is the Triads retained their core infrastructure. But at least more professional investigation came with the new Triad Society Bureau.
In the early 1960s some headway was being made to tackle the Triad menace. The once tight groups were showing signs of fragmenting. This work faltered with the onset of civil unrest in 1966. This escalated to full-blown rioting in 1967. With the police again distracted, the Triads enjoyed a period of relative freedom. Even the Triad Society Bureau got reassigned. It became the Bomb Investigation Unit.’ With the pressure off, the triads saw an opportunity and took it.
Almost immediately the police recorded a significant increase in gang-fights. The various groups fought to position themselves. This situation was to continue unchecked until about mid-1968. Recovering from its exertions, the Police managed to get some focus on anti-triad work.
The next notable event was the formation of the ICAC. This resulted in a purge of corrupt police officers. As the purge gathered pace in 1976 and 1977, it drove out police officers who had triad connections. This had immediate benefits, including lessening the opportunity to compromise operations.
The current state of play with the triads is as dynamic as it ever was. In the past 30 years, it is significant that the Sun Yee On has emerged as a leading player.
Of the current groups most active are:
Sun Yee On (新義安) ; a relative newcomer in Hong Kong. Formed in 1919. This group was first based in eastern Guangdong. When the founder and leader of the group got deported to Taiwan in the 1950s, members spread to Hong Kong. A police assessment from the early 1970s portrayed the Sun Yee On as a minor sub-group within the larger Chiu Chau grouping. Yet, from the 1980s onwards the Sun Yee On expanded its activities. Its geographical interest where in West Kowloon and Tsuen Mun. Since the handover in 1997, the Sun Yee On has adopted a lower profile. There are signs it is moving into legitimate businesses with expanding interests on the Mainland.
14K (十四K); formed as an anti-communist action group by a Kuomintang General in 1945. The origins of its name are in dispute. With the KMT defeated in 1949, the group fled to Hong Kong. The 14K saw rapid growth, with many sub-groups forming. These came into conflict with each other. In recent years the 14K has engaged in disputes with the Sun Yee On and other groups
Wo Shing Wo (和勝和) ; a home-grown Hong Kong group. Thought to have formed in the Sham Shui Po area in 1930, it now operates from Tsuen Wan. Its influence extends across Hong Kong. Over the past decade, the Wo Shing Wo has moved into some areas seen as the domain of the Sun Yee On. In another telling development, control of the Wo Shing Wo has fragmented. It does not have a single Dragon Head, with two people currently holding that designation. These individuals do not get along, which in turn has led to sub-groups engaging in attacks on each other. The Dragon Heads are unable or unwilling to broker settlement talks.
Wo On Lok or Shui Fong (水房幫) ; this group started life in the 1930s as a union at a soft drinks company in Sham Shui Po. Hence the name Shui Fong or “water room”. Shui Fong has engaged in internal disputes over leadership. This led to violence between 2009 and 2011. Besides, the group has challenged others including the 14K in Macau.
Wo Hop To (和合圖) ; this Aberdeen based group is retro. Their adherence to triad traditions, including retaining a single Dragon Head is unusual. They formed in about 1908 as a political group. The overseas fraction of this group is San Francisco based. It has been aggressive in pushing other groups out of the city.
The traditional structure of the triad gang is portrayed thus:
This linear hierarchy was true during the period when most triads formed. It has since fallen from use. Such a clear, well-defined, structure, with distinct lines of command facilitates control. Also, such a structure provides an easy job for law enforcement. As you follow the money flow through the group to take out the key players. Further, a single Dragon Head allows pressure to exerted at one point for greatest impact. As such, this structure was never going to survive against determined police action.
With the possible exception of the Wo Hop To, triad command structures are now more loose. With many Dragon Heads a networked arrangement evolved. Some groups have even opted out of the defined roles. These adopted matrix type models for their operations. The use of these flexible structures has had consequences. Loosening control led to less loyalty within groups. This allowed young pretenders and hotheads to challenge the bosses. Plus, independent action taking place.
The smarter gang bosses recognised this meant more unwelcome police attention. So they sought to mitigate this by restraining their members. On occasions, they'd leak information to the police to take out troublemakers.
An attack on a journalist in 2014, prompted sustained police action against the Wo Shing Wo. This included frequent raids on bars, nightclubs and their commercial interests. This effort was effective. It compromise the group's cash flows, as the public opted to stay away from venues seen to be Wo Shing Wo affiliated. With income hit, the Wo Shing Wo sought to distance itself from the attack. They came forward with information.
In many regards, the old triad structures have completely disappeared. Today, the relationship is between the ‘Big Brother’ and immediate followers. The Big Brother may have an affiliation above him, but he may not. Further, groups adopt names such as ‘Jordan Market Wo Shing Wo. ’ This asserts their geographical home.
Likewise, the complicated initiation ceremonies of the past are no more. These days a quick ritual is the norm. Groups will also cooperate if it serves their interests by allowing everyone to get their beaks wet. Collaboration is more frequent these days as the old allegiances recede.
The public, with its perception shaped by the movies, believe the triads have lucrative businesses. For some the truth is much more prosaic. In April 2013, Tsuen Wan Police dealt with an escalating dispute between the Sun Yee On and Wo Shing Wo. This centered on the distribution of rice boxes to workers at the Science Park in Shatin. The sums involved were not much.
A local Wo Shing Wo figure had the monopoly on rice box supply. He dispatched these from his Tsuen Wan cooked food shop to Shatin. Sun Yee On characters in Shatin felt this was an affront to their authority, as they claimed control of the area. Threats got ignored and then the Sun Yee On acted by roughing up the Wo Shing Wo guys dropping off the rice boxes. After a failed attempt at negotiations, a car rammed into the Tsuen Wan shop. All the players involved were soon rounded up, whilst the rice box business passed on to someone else.
Another case involved a gang attacking their rivals over a 16-year old girl. Trouble started when she switched her affections. Hardly the stuff of big league players. Nonetheless these incidents could prove serious as the bravado of the attack can get out of hand.
The triads do enjoy a steady incomes from extorting PLB drivers. Extortion of shopkeepers occurs and providing bouncing services is gainful . But the more astute have taken advantage of the burgeoning gambling scene in Macau. Running private rooms catering for high rollers is profitable. Whilst the foot soldiers gain from loansharking, debt-collection and associated activities. Those with connections on the Mainland have sought to focus their operations there. Operating semi-legal enterprises connected to corrupt officials.
The events of 9/11 had a profound impact on triad operations. In the scramble to appease America, countries enforced money laundering legislation. As a byproduct of this criminal gangs found it harder to move their illicit funds. The draconian powers given to law enforcement were applied at a local level. Street-level toughs had to explain how they came about their income without regular employment. Such measures began to hit the front-line triads hard.
In a coordinated manner, each Police District selected a target. Investigated him, prosecuted and then moved on to the next. More than ever the triads understood the need to keep a low profile to avoid unwelcome attention. One triad boss revealed to me that money laundering laws caused him the biggest worry. In response, he was seeking to turn legitimate as he assessed the risks as too high.
Only a foolhardy police officer claims ‘to have smashed the triads.’ In reality, the battle is constant. Shifting focus, full of challenges and relentless. While statistics are showing a steady decline in triad-related activity. The figures only tell part of the story. I also heard much anecdotal evidence to suggest a decline. This includes shopkeepers stating they experienced no soliciting of lucky money over Chinese New Year. Whilst sex workers (always a vulnerable group) have reported fewer attempts to extort them.
Nonetheless, vigilance is needed as unseen triad activity is going on and the extent is unknown. Debt collection, including damage to homes to intimidate non-payers, is a good indicator. Likewise, random assaults in bars and nightclubs need to seen in context. To this end, the battle continues.
In the late 1980s, the government ran a triad renunciation scheme. You could have your history reviewed and records expunged by a tribunal. This allowed a fresh start. The scheme operated for about two and half years before it stopped. Some 1,100 triad members applied to renounce their allegiance. Only 600-odd succeeded.
The approach of 1997 motivated some. With their families departing, the scheme cleared their records. Criminal records prevented emigration. The demise of the scheme was never accounted for by the government. I do know that foreign governments took a dim view. Hong Kong-based triads could cover their tracks before heading overseas. Once in their adopted country, it was business as usual.
On a related note, I’ve seen ill-considered and naive attempts by church groups to intervene for triads. In one instance, a Christian group adopted a young triad into their congregation. They worked to protect him from police attention. I received a steady stream of letters asserting the young man had seen the light. He'd taken God to foreswear his bad ways. Meanwhile, he was trafficking drugs at Church sessions. That's when not busy de-flowering young ladies. His Pastor berated us for the arrest of this convert. He never had the decency to apologise when the truth came out in Court.
It’s a notable phenomenon that a good number of triad leaders purport to be devout Christians. This was first seen in the 1900s. Even in modern Hong Kong, triad bosses have talked about their religious views. The cynical may argue that the Church offers some form of forgiveness for the life these men lead. It would make an interesting study to understand the motivation for such conflicting behaviours.
So, in summary, the triads were never the monolithic institutions the media seeks to portray. The reality is more complex, dynamic and intriguing. It continues to evolve in the modern world. These days the smart triads are seeking to minimise their exposure to law enforcement. Turning to legitimate business to supplement and mask illegal activities. Yet always ready to use their muscle when the situation merits. Meanwhile, control of the on-street thugs is declining. This presents a new challenge for the police, as they seek to keep gang activity in check.
A few triads have managed to gain a position in society that accords them respectability. They move in what passes for polite company. These men appear to have foregone their old ways, using power and money to gain influence. Whether they have fully detached from their former triad connections is open to debate.
Returning to my opening observation, the majority don’t make the transition to a ‘better tomorrow'. This is especially true of those who get involved with drugs. A visit to Yue Man Square, in the industrial area of Kwun Tong, is telling. Groups of old men with haunted eyes, frail bodies, gather around. They waste their days on card games. A good number of these were serious triad players some two or three decades ago. Their power and ability to threaten people long gone with their declining health. Twice a day this impotent human wreckage shuffles off to collect methadone. This is the boneyard for grizzled triads, who failed to make the cut.