Asian Organized Crime and the Anglosphere

This chapter introduces the multifaceted phenomenon of Asian Organized Crime and its impact on nation-states, with a particular emphasis on the Anglosphere countries. It delves into the intricate dynamics and transnational operations of Asian criminal groups, examining the diverse responses and strategies employed by the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. This chapter explores the categories of AOC, ranging from traditional criminal activities rooted in Asian countries to non-traditional crimes that have expanded into Western nations. Furthermore, it highlights the presence and impact of prominent criminal groups such as Triads, Yakuza, and Southeast Asian organizations within the Anglosphere countries. Overall, this chapter lays the foundation for a comprehensive examination of AOC and its implications for national security.

This chapter explores the complex and evolving landscape of transnational organized crime in the context of globalization. It highlights the distinct characteristics of transnational organized crime and its impact on traditional law enforcement approaches. Globalization is identified as a driving force behind the growth and proliferation of transnational criminal activities, with examples ranging from narcotics markets to human exploitation markets. This chapter further emphasizes the threat organized crime poses to national and regional security, the erosion of democratic institutions, and the need for international cooperation. It explores various theoretical perspectives within International Relations and their implications for understanding transnational organized crime. This chapter highlights the importance of domestic factors, such as leaders’ images and domestic institutions, in shaping state responses to transnational organized crime. The chapter introduces the utilization of qualitative comparative case study methods to investigate the multifaceted phenomenon of Asian organized crime for this study.

This chapter explores the impacts of Asian organized crime on the United States, highlighting the interconnectedness of AOC networks, both domestically and internationally, emphasizing their strategic and far-reaching nature. These criminal organizations undermine border security, immigration systems, humanitarian concerns, business interests, political relationships, and national security. AOC’s engagement in financial crimes, such as money laundering, intellectual property crime, and cybercrimes, further threatens the country’s economic interests, technological advancements, and national security. The United States has implemented various legal measures, law enforcement initiatives, and international collaborations to counter AOC. This chapter emphasizes the significance of international cooperation, intelligence sharing, and the implementation of legal frameworks. It also discusses specific measures taken against specific Asian organized crime groups.

This chapter explores the increasing complexity and operations of Asian organized crime in Canada. It highlights the AOC’s involvement in various illegal activities and examines the impact of Asian organized crime on Canadian society. The chapter delves into Canada’s comprehensive response to combat Asian organized crime, including legislative measures, specialized law enforcement units, and international collaborations. It also emphasizes the importance of preventive measures, community engagement, and capacity building within law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, the chapter explores Canada’s commitment to international cooperation through various means. The chapter emphasizes the ongoing efforts to address Asian organized crime and the need for collaborative strategies and continuous adaptation to counter this transnational threat effectively.

This chapter overviews the impact and challenges of Asian organized crime syndicates in the United Kingdom. It examines the origins and activities of these criminal networks, focusing on triads with deep-rooted connections to Hong Kong and their association with Japanese yakuza groups. This chapter highlights the adaptability of organized crime networks and their exploration of new avenues for illicit activities. It addresses the grave issue of human trafficking, particularly from Vietnam, and emphasizes the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies, international organizations, and civil society to combat this global scourge. It discusses the government’s serious and organized crime policy, regional cooperation initiatives, and international partnerships to disrupt criminal networks. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to counter Asian organized crime and safeguard public safety, economic progress, and national security in the United Kingdom.

This chapter provides an overview of the presence and impact of Asian organized crime groups in Australia. It highlights the activities and challenges posed by Vietnamese and Chinese criminal networks. Australian governmental agencies have intensified their efforts to combat these criminal groups through legislative and non-legislative measures, such as enhancing investigative powers and establishing specialized task forces. This chapter emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in addressing transnational organized crime. It also mentions the social, economic, and political implications of Asian organized crime in Australia. It concludes by emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies, community involvement, and increased funding to combat Asian organized crime in Australia effectively.

This chapter explores the risks associated with Asian organized crime in New Zealand. The rise of international connections between New Zealand criminal gangs and Asian syndicates further compounds the threats faced by the nation. It highlights New Zealand’s efforts in addressing the challenges posed by Asian organized crime, including legislative reforms, enhanced law enforcement, and international cooperation. The country’s robust law enforcement agencies contribute to the deterrence of criminal activities. Collaboration with ASEAN member countries and active participation in international initiatives demonstrate New Zealand’s regional and global security commitment. By addressing the root causes of organized crime and enhancing cooperation between domestic and international agencies, New Zealand aims to safeguard its integrity, promote lawful activity, and protect the well-being of its citizens.

This chapter provides a concluding account of the impact of Asian organized crime on the selected countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. AOC engages in various illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering, and organized retail crime, posing severe threats. The chapter explores the specific manifestations of AOC in each country, highlighting similarities and differences in criminal activities and their consequences. It emphasizes the need for robust regulatory frameworks, effective enforcement mechanisms, and international cooperation to combat AOC networks. This chapter underscores the importance of comprehensive and coordinated approaches to combat AOC and protect societal and national interests.