21 people have been arrested following allegations of illegal betting activity within the Hong Kong horse racing sector.
The strengthened fight against corruption follows an investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), which allegedly uncovered information of stable staff distributing inside information.
An ICAC statement underlined: “While enquiries are continuing, no further comments are available at this stage.
“The HKJC has rendered full assistance to the ICAC during its operation. The ICAC and the HKJC do not tolerate any corrupt activities.
“The two organisations will continue to liaise and cooperate closely to combat related crimes and keep horse racing in Hong Kong clean.”
The Hong Kong Jockey Club also emphasised that it has “zero tolerance” for any illegal acts, adding: “The club does not comment on any cases being investigated by ICAC. However, the club would like to emphasise that upholding uncompromising integrity has always been the core value of the club.”
The racing sector within the territory is incredibly lucrative, with millions being wagered daily. It has led to heightened regulations and stringent punishments for corruption being implemented and enforced in Hong Kong.
The news comes as the country approaches a key period in its racing calendar with the G1 Hong Kong International Cup (2000m) and G1 Hong Kong International Vase (2400m) taking place at Sha Tin on December 8.