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The Financial Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (FIIB) launched the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Month in August and conducted a series of enforcement operations and publicity events to remind the public not to rent, lend or sell their bank accounts to others. During the month, FIIB mounted three enforcement operations codenamed BLACKBRAIN, SMALLTUNE and STEALTHHERO, resulting in neutralisation of three criminal syndicates and arrest of 27 persons, who were suspected to have laundered over $300 million of suspected crime proceeds.
In terms of publicity events, the Financial Institutions AML Forum 2024 was held on August 2. Two panel discussions were pioneered, during which keynote speakers were invited to share their insight on AML strategies. Moreover, to further strengthen AML awareness among students, young adults and foreign domestic helpers, a range of activities were held at universities and the Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Centre. In addition to seminars and fun games, an AML comic book The Dirty Money Trap was published. It features three stories adapted from real cases so as to allow the public to understand the legislations on AML and how to avoid falling prey to money laundering traps. In addition to publicity, FIIB organised AML Induction Course for 25 frontline officers to enhance their capabilities in handling relevant cases.
