Key Figure Behind Taiwan Gambling Ring
Prosecutors have identified a 41-year-old man named Lo as the key player in this case. Lo, who operates a Hong Kong-style diner in Taipei, reportedly launched the operation in August 2020 after obtaining the source code for a payment platform.
This technology led to the creation of HeroPay and MatchPay.
Lo is facing charges of money laundering, illegal online gambling, and organized crime, which could end in a combined prison sentence of nine years and six months. Prosecutors also seek to confiscate funds generated by the operation. The network allegedly used these platforms to mask financial transactions, flying under the regulatory oversight radar and allowing the operation’s volume to grow to nearly US$1 billion.
Expansion of Syndicate’s Operations
The syndicate’s activities intensified in June 2022 with the launch of its own online gambling site, Rich 11, offering games such as baccarat, slots, and sports betting. HeroPay reportedly served as the primary method for processing player deposits on this platform.
Authorities estimate that from July 2021 to September 9, 2025, funds associated with Rich 11 and other illegal gambling services clocked NT$30.695 billion. Prosecutors claim these funds were used for Lo’s personal profits, payment platform operation costs, and investments in other ventures. One such venture was a Taipei restaurant named Dongyin Quick Knifeman, allegedly serving as a front for the operation, similar to Lo’s diner.
Indictments Under Taiwan’s Legal Framework
All defendants face charges under Taiwan’s Organized Crime Prevention Act, the Money Laundering Control Act, and relevant provisions of the Criminal Code regarding online gambling. This case underscores Taiwan’s intensified efforts against illegal betting, as lawmakers recently enhanced penalties for sports betting manipulation due to growing concerns about sophisticated underground gambling operations.
