Three Arrested for Counterfeit Casino Chip Fraud in Cotai

Published on 4 January 2025

Three mainland men were arrested for allegedly using counterfeit chips to commit fraud at a Cotai casino. Police seized 77 fake chips worth 10,000 yuan each and HK$17,000 in suspected proceeds. The scheme defrauded the casino, gamblers, and money exchangers of a total of HK$600,000.

The incident occurred on January 1 when a casino dealer detected a fake HK$10,000 chip during a transaction. Further investigation revealed other gamblers were unknowingly holding counterfeit chips, obtained through exchanges inside or near the casino.

Police found the suspects, who entered Macau that day, collaborating to mix fake chips with real ones. One suspect attempted to exchange the chips at the casino counter, exposing the scheme, while another used them in private exchanges.

Authorities confirmed the casino lost HK$20,000, while 11 victims lost HK$580,000. Four victims were also found to be engaged in illegal money exchanges, which are being separately investigated.

Visitors to Macau are advised to avoid exchanging money with strangers to stay within the law.