Bullying, Violence and Gangs
Claiming to be a member of a triad society
Claiming to be a member of a triad society is an offence contrary to Section 20 (2) of the Societies Ordinance (Chapter 151). It is an offence to claim or profess membership of a triad society. A claim of membership of a triad society is often made in blackmail and criminal intimidation situations. The question is whether as fact the defendant has by words and/or gestures asserted membership of a triad society active in Hong Kong. This will involve an examination of what was said or done and how it was said or done. Expert evidence may be needed on the context and meaning of words or gestures used. There is no need to prove that the person professing or claiming to be a member of a triad society is in fact a member. Being a member of a triad society is itself an offence under Section 20 (2) of the Ordinance.
