NCJ Number
210204
Date Published
March 2005
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the investigation of money laundering and corruption in Hong Kong.
Abstract
In 1974, the Hong Kong ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption) was established to eradicate widespread government corruption. While few at the time believed the ICAC could have an impact, within 3 years the group had smashed all criminal syndicates within the government and had prosecuted 247 government officers. The Hong Kong experience fighting government corruption and money laundering is considered a model for other countries. The author enumerates the five most important factors contributing to the success of the anti-corruption campaign in Hong Kong and then offers a description of money laundering and corruption and how they were confronted in this country. Anti-money laundering legislation is outlined and the difficulties involved in the investigation of money laundering and corruption are discussed. Six case studies are presented that illustrate the nature of the crimes and the complexities of the investigations. As offenders become more sophisticated in their use of current technology, the investigation of money laundering and corruption has become ever more difficult and investigators have had to adapt traditional investigation methods to fit new modes of criminal activities. In closing, the author argues that a more proactive approach to the investigation of money laundering and corruption is called for, including wider use of undercover operations and the use of telephone interception.