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20 Notorius Asian Gangsters And Gangs

*Originally published by Brian in April 2023 and Updated by Felix in May 2024

The existence of gangs and gangsters in Asia can be elucidated through a multifaceted lens, encompassing a myriad of historical, cultural, socioeconomic, and political factors. These clandestine organizations, often imbued with a sense of esprit de corps and exhibiting a modus operandi steeped in secrecy and illicit activities, exert a profound influence on the socio-political landscape of the region.

Asia’s history is replete with instances where gangs have emerged as a formidable force, wielding substantial power and influence. From the ancient Chinese Triads, with their intricate hierarchy and complex rituals, to the Yakuza in Japan, with their code of honour and strict organizational structure, these groups have wielded an enduring presence, woven into the fabric of Asian society.

The phenomenon of gangsterism in Asia is also intricately linked to socioeconomic disparities and marginalized communities. In many cases, these groups serve as a parallel economy, providing a means of economic empowerment for disenfranchised individuals who face limited opportunities in mainstream society. Moreover, the intricate interplay between gangs and politics in Asia is often evident. Gangsters have been known to forge close alliances with politicians, wielding significant influence over local elections, and even gaining a foothold in national politics.

The operational dynamics of these gangs are shrouded in secrecy and sophistication, with a complex web of rituals, codes, and hierarchies that are often impervious to external scrutiny. Members are bound by a strict code of conduct, and transgressions are often met with severe consequences, including violence and even death.

The intricate networks established by these gangs extend beyond national borders, with transnational criminal syndicates operating across Asia and beyond, engaging in a wide array of illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, arms smuggling, and money laundering, among others.

1. Fujianese organized crime, China

Fujianese organized crime, commonly known as the Fujiang gang, represents a pernicious criminal network composed of individuals hailing from the Fujian province, akin to the notorious triad gangs. While the term primarily denotes the activities of Fujianese immigrant gangs in Hong Kong, it can also encompass a broader spectrum, including Fujianese community associations or native crime syndicates within the Fujian province.

These Fujianese gangs have captured global attention in recent years, drawing widespread scrutiny and condemnation for their flagrant involvement in violent attacks perpetrated against Hong Kong’s pro-democracy protestors. Notably, the brazen acts of aggression witnessed in the 2019 Yuen Long attack and the assault in North Point on 8 November 2019 have underscored the growing menace posed by these criminal syndicates. These incidents have prompted a sharp focus on the nefarious activities of the Fujianese organized crime, revealing the intricate webs of corruption and criminality that have permeated Hong Kong’s social fabric.

The Fujianese gangs have gained infamy for their ruthless and cunning operations, leveraging sophisticated strategies and tactics to carry out their illicit activities. Employing a labyrinthine network of connections and hierarchies, these syndicates operate with meticulous precision, engaging in a wide array of illegal practices, ranging from smuggling and drug trafficking to extortion and money laundering. Their operations often transcend borders, posing formidable challenges to law enforcement agencies in their pursuit of justice.

Furthermore, the Fujianese organized crime has been implicated in orchestrating targeted attacks against Hong Kong’s pro-democracy protestors, exhibiting a blatant disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law. These heinous acts have triggered grave concerns about the erosion of civil liberties and the destabilizing impact of organized crime on Hong Kong’s social and political landscape.

2. Kudo-kai, Japan

. Asdasd123asdasd123, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Kudo-kai, a yakuza group based in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka on the Kyushu island of Japan, is a notorious syndicate boasting an estimated 220 active members. Renowned for its fiercely independent nature since its inception, the Kudo-kai has repeatedly clashed with the Yamaguchi-Gumi, with no less than eight documented conflicts in 2000 alone, resulting in the fatal shooting of a Yamaguchi-affiliate boss by the Kudo-kai.

As the largest yakuza group in the Kitakyushu area, the Kudo-kai is distinguished by its unrelenting militant stance, often resorting to the use of machine guns and hand grenades in their illicit activities. Notably, the Kudo-kai is viewed as a quintessential exemplar of Kyushu yakuza, known for their belligerent defiance of law enforcement, quick temper, and unwavering “fight with pride” attitude.

The National Police Agency’s official report has labelled the Kudo-kai as a “particularly nefarious group,” highlighting their propensity for violence and criminality. A notable incident that underscores the Kudo-kai’s brazenness occurred in March 1988, when the syndicate attacked the Consulate General Fukuoka office of the People’s Republic of China with shotguns and a dump truck, during a feud with a Chinese mafia syndicate attempting to establish a foothold in the Kitakyushu area, despite the consulate having no involvement in the matter.

The Kudo-kai is affiliated with the Yonsha-kai, a fraternal federation composed of four northern Kyushu-based organizations, including the Taishu-kai, Dojin-kai, and Kumamoto-kai. Previously known as the “Sansha-kai” until the inclusion of the Kumamoto-kai in 2005, the Yonsha-kai is spearheaded by the Kudo-kai as its principal member, further cementing the group’s prominent status within the federation.

3. Four Seas Gang, Taiwan

The Four Seas Gang, or FSG or Si Hai Bang, is a triad society with roots in Taiwan. Originally established by mainland Chinese and their descendants who sought refuge in Taiwan alongside the Kuomintang (KMT), the Four Seas Gang is believed to have a staggering membership of approximately 10,000 individuals in Taiwan alone. Notably, the group has also expanded its influence to cities in the southern region of California, where its American constituents have formed a branch that traces its origins back to the original Taiwanese society.

While smaller factions within the Four Seas Gang operate as street gangs and engage in skirmishes with other low-profile gangs, the group’s main activities are centred around illicit activities such as alien smuggling in Southern California. With Los Angeles and Santa Ana as their primary territories, the Four Seas Gang has been known to employ distinctive clothing in the form of grey attire, serving as a visual marker for their members.

4. Snakehead Gang, China

Serpents are Chinese syndicates that clandestinely transport individuals to foreign countries. They are prevalent in the Fujian region of China and specialize in smuggling their clients into affluent Western nations, including Western Europe, North America, and Australia, as well as nearby prosperous regions such as Taiwan and Japan.

Snakeheads employ diverse techniques to facilitate the migration of their clients to the West. These methods may encompass the use of purloined or doctored passports, fraudulently obtained visas, and bribery to facilitate the movement of people across national borders until they reach their ultimate destination. Additionally, they may resort to disguising their operations as fake business delegations or tour groups to circumvent immigration controls, displaying shrewdness in their illicit activities. Remarkably, the remuneration for a successful smuggling venture can soar as high as US$70,000.

Notably, one prominent member of the snakehead syndicate was Cheng Chui Ping, also known as “Sister Ping”. Another noteworthy figure is Guo Liang Chi, widely recognized by his street alias of Ah Kay, who masterminded the tragic Golden Venture cargo ship incident in 1993, a venture that was financed by Sister Ping.

5. Big Circle Gang, China

The Grand Ring Syndicate is a Chinese triad that was established in Hong Kong during the 1970s. It garnered the sobriquet “Big Circle Gang” and was formed by former members of the Red Guards, a paramilitary organization instituted by Mao Zedong during the Cultural Revolution. Subsequently, as Mao ordered a crackdown on the Red Guards employing the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), many former members of the organization were incarcerated in China.

However, certain former Red Guards sought refuge in Hong Kong, where they utilized their military expertise for criminal activities, as per Canadian court records, and thus formed the notorious Big Circle Gang. This triad now thrives amidst the unregulated factories and clandestine banks of Guangdong, particularly in the city of Guangzhou, and its moniker “Big Circle Gang” was derived from a map denoting their operational region in China.

In the 1990s, the Big Circle Boys rapidly expanded their influence across Canadian cities, and confidential informants reveal that they serve as trusted intermediaries in fluid networks of Asian drug trafficking. They have wielded control over a significant portion of the heroin trade in central China and currently dominate the distribution of heroin and fentanyl in the United States and Canada. The Big Circle Boys operate as a transnational organized crime syndicate.

As part of Operation Kungur, Dutch police arrested Tse Chi Lop on 22 January 2021, who is alleged to have assumed leadership of the organization and elevated it to new heights as “Sam Gor” (The Company), with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime estimating the larger syndicate’s turnover to be between $8-18 billion in 2018.

6. 14K Triad, China

The 14K, originally formed in Guangzhou, China in 1945 by Kuomintang Lieutenant-General Kot Siu-wong as an anti-Communist action group, later relocated to Hong Kong in 1949 following the Kuomintang’s flight from the Communists after the Chinese Civil War. The name “14K” is believed to refer to the group’s original fourteen members who were part of the Kuomintang, although other sources suggest it may also represent the road number of a former headquarters in Kowloon.

The 14K is known for its criminal activities, primarily engaging in large-scale drug trafficking worldwide, with a particular focus on heroin and opium from China or Southeast Asia. In addition to drug trafficking, the 14K is involved in various illegal activities such as illegal gambling, loan sharking, money laundering, contract murder, arms trafficking, prostitution, human trafficking, extortion, counterfeiting, and home invasion robberies to a lesser extent.

Compared to other triad societies, the 14K is considered one of the largest and most violent groups based in Hong Kong. However, its members appear to be more loosely connected than those of other triad societies. Factional violence within the 14K is rampant and difficult to control, as no single leader can govern all factions of the group worldwide.

7. Ah Kong

Ah Kong, a formidable organized crime and drugs syndicate, rose to prominence in the 1970s to 1990s, establishing a stronghold in the European heroin trade. Despite originating from Singapore, Ah Kong’s main operations were based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Bangkok, Thailand, where they obtained their drug supplies from the notorious Golden Triangle region formed by Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.

Although Ah Kong had a presence in other major European cities and the Asia-Pacific, it was not as influential in Singapore due to the country’s strict anti-drug policies and crackdown on secret societies. Ah Kong was known to have connections with other Southeast Asian countries and had built strong ties with the infamous Penang-based Sio Sam Ong. Most of Ah Kong’s members were Singaporean Chinese who spoke Hokkien, a Chinese dialect. The syndicate was formed when several members of the See Tong gang, meaning buddies or a group of close friends, escaped to the Netherlands after a gang clash in Singapore and later recruited members with military training acquired during their National Service stint.

However, after the assassination of the Ah Kong boss in 1997, the syndicate’s influence began to wane, losing ground to the Sin Ma gang based in Rotterdam, led by a Singaporean fugitive wanted for first-degree murder with a firearm in the 1980s. The last official Ah Kong boss passed away in March 2010, and Roland Tan, who was associated with Ah Kong, died in 2020.

8. Tadamasa Goto

Tadamasa Goto, also known as Got艒 Tadamasa, is a retired yakuza and a figure of notoriety. In December 2015, he was placed on a watch list by the US Treasury Department due to his involvement in criminal activities, which reportedly continue to this day. Additionally, Goto is believed to be providing financial support to the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi, a crime group that splintered from the Yamaguchi-Gumi, Japan’s largest yakuza syndicate, on August 27, 2015, according to unspecified sources. He was the founding leader of the Goto-gumi, an affiliate of the Yamaguchi-gumi based in Fujinomiya.

Goto’s criminal record is extensive, with at least nine convictions to his name. He was once a prominent yakuza and held significant power as a crime boss in Tokyo, earning him the moniker of the “John Gotti of Japan.” It has been alleged that Goto was, at one point, the largest shareholder of Japan Airlines, although this claim has been disputed by stock exchange filings.

Notably, Goto had been prohibited from entering the United States until 2001, when he obtained a special visa deal from the FBI that allowed him to undergo a life-saving liver transplant during a time of acute organ scarcity.

9. Tse Chi Lop

Tse Chi Lop, also known by various aliases including Brother No. 3, Sam Gor, T1, Ah Lap, Dennis, and Xie Zii, is the alleged kingpin behind the Asia-Pacific-based international crime super syndicate known as “The Company.” Tse is a former member of the notorious Big Circle Gang, a triad crime group based in Hong Kong, Toronto, and Vancouver. Tse, who holds Canadian citizenship and has been estimated to be around 56 years old, has been identified as a top target by law enforcement agencies, with some referring to him as “T1.”

The Sam Gor syndicate, under Tse’s alleged leadership, has been implicated in the multi-billion dollar trade of methamphetamine and other synthetic drugs. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Sam Gor is estimated to have generated between $8 billion and $17.7 billion in revenue from methamphetamine in 2018, and its operations have reportedly expanded significantly in the past five years. Tse has been likened to notorious drug lord Joaqu铆n “El Chapo” Guzm谩n in terms of his global influence in the drug trade by leading authorities.

Tse was apprehended by Dutch police at Schiphol Airport on 22 January 2021 while en route to Canada from Taiwan. He was subsequently extradited to Melbourne, Australia on 22 December 2022, where he is expected to face legal proceedings.

10. Wo Hop To

Wo Hop To is a Hong Kong-based criminal triad organization that has been active for several decades. Wo Hop To, also known as “Harmonious Combination”, is known for its involvement in various illegal activities, including organized crime, smuggling, and extortion.

The Wo Hop To triad is believed to have been established in the 1940s and has since grown into a formidable criminal organization with a significant presence in Hong Kong and other regions. The triad is known for its strict hierarchy, complex rituals, and codes of conduct, which are enforced through violence and intimidation.

Wo Hop To has been associated with various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, illegal gambling, loan sharking, and money laundering. The organization is known for its involvement in organized crime syndicates, both in Hong Kong and internationally, and has been implicated in numerous high-profile criminal cases.

11. Tongs

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Tongs were big gangs but also like families. Some Tongs were famous for doing bad things, like stealing and fighting with other Tongs. They had secret signs and rules, and some people were scared of them. But not all Tongs were mean. Some just wanted to help their community and keep everyone safe.

They would give out food to those who needed it and help people find jobs. But even the good Tongs had to be careful because the bad ones could cause trouble for everyone. So, in the heart of Chinatown, the Tongs were both feared and respected, like powerful dragons guarding their territory.

12. Sun Yee On

Sun Yee On was a famous gang in Hong Kong. They were known for their illegal activities like drug trafficking and extortion. The gang was led by powerful leaders who controlled many parts of the city. Sun Yee On members were feared by many because of their violent ways. They operated secretly, making it hard for the police to catch them. Despite their criminal activities, the gang had a strong influence in Hong Kong. People were both fascinated and scared of them.

13. Wo Shing Wo

Wo Shing Wo was a well-known gang in Hong Kong. They were involved in illegal activities like drug trafficking, gambling, and extortion. The gang had a strict code of conduct and hierarchy, with leaders who commanded respect and loyalty. Wo Shing Wo members were known for their fierce loyalty to the gang and their willingness to do anything to protect it.

Despite their criminal activities, the gang had a strong presence in Hong Kong and was both feared and respected by many. Wo Shing Wo’s story is a mix of danger, loyalty, and power, making them one of the most notorious Asian gangsters in history.

14. Asian Boyz

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The Asian Boyz gang was a notorious group in the United States known for their criminal activities. They were primarily made up of members of Asian descent, particularly Cambodian and Vietnamese. The gang was involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes.

The Asian Boyz gained a reputation for their fierce loyalty to the gang and their willingness to use violence to protect their interests. They operated in several states, including California, and were known for their distinctive tattoos and hand signs.

15. Wah Ching gang

The Wah Ching gang is a notorious Asian gang that originated in the United States. Known for their criminal activities, the Wah Ching gang has been involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes. Members of the gang often display their affiliation through tattoos and hand signs. The Wah Ching gang has a strict hierarchy and code of conduct, with leaders who command respect and loyalty from their members.

Operating primarily in California, the gang has gained a reputation for its involvement in organized crime. Despite law enforcement efforts to dismantle the gang, the Wah Ching continues to be a prominent presence in the criminal underworld.

16. Brothers Keepers

The Brothers Keepers gang is a legendary group in Asia, known for their daring exploits and tight bonds. They’re like a family but with a dark side. These gangsters rule the streets with an iron fist, making sure everyone knows who’s in charge. From smuggling to drug trafficking, they’re involved in all sorts of illegal activities. But it’s not just about the money for them; they have a code of honor they stick to. Loyalty is everything, and they protect their own at all costs. Their influence stretches far and wide, making them a force to be reckoned with. Crossing them is not a smart move; they’re the stuff of both fear and fascination in the criminal world.

17. Tiny Rascal Gang

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The Tiny Rascal Gang, also known as TRG, is a notorious Asian gang that has gained notoriety for its criminal activities. Originating in California, USA, they have expanded their influence across the country. Members of the Tiny Rascal Gang are known for their involvement in various illegal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes. Despite their name, they are anything but tiny when it comes to their impact on communities and law enforcement.

Their notoriety has led to widespread fear and caution among those who encounter them. Law enforcement agencies have been working tirelessly to dismantle their operations and bring their leaders to justice.

18. Tokyo Boyz

The Tokyo Boyz were a well-known Asian gang in the United States. They were involved in illegal activities like drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes. Members of the Tokyo Boyz often had tattoos and hand signs to show their affiliation. The gang had leaders who expected loyalty and respect from their members. Despite efforts by the police to stop them, the Tokyo Boyz remained active, especially in California.

Their story is a mix of crime, youth culture, and the challenges faced by some Asian American communities. The Tokyo Boyz were a powerful and notorious gang that left a mark on the criminal world in the United States.

19. Tran Organization

The Tran Organization is a famous Asian gangster group known for its influence and power in the criminal world. Led by the enigmatic Mr. Tran, they operate with cunning and ruthlessness, controlling illegal activities like drug trafficking, extortion, and money laundering across multiple countries.

With a network that spans from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the vibrant alleys of Hong Kong, they strike fear into the hearts of those who dare to oppose them. Their members are renowned for their loyalty and efficiency, making them a force to be reckoned with in the underworld.

20. Bamboo Union

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The Bamboo Union is one of Asia’s most famous gangsters. They’re like modern-day Robin Hoods but with a twist. Instead of stealing from the rich to give to the poor, they operate in the shadows, running illegal businesses and controlling territories. Their origins trace back to Taiwan, but their influence stretches across the globe. Members are known for their loyalty and fierce reputation.

They’re involved in everything from drug trafficking to extortion, making them a force to be reckoned with. Despite law enforcement’s efforts, the Bamboo Union remains a powerful and mysterious entity in the world of organized crime

The phenomenon of gangs and gangsters in Asia is a multifaceted and complex social phenomenon, shaped by historical, cultural, socioeconomic, and political factors. These clandestine organizations, with their intricate hierarchies, secret codes, and illicit activities, exert a significant influence on the socio-political landscape of the region, often blurring the lines between legality and illegality. Understanding the nuanced dynamics of gangs and gangsters in Asia requires a sophisticated analysis that delves into the historical, cultural, and socio-political context in which these groups operate.