The total number of Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) in Macau jumped 32.9% in 2017, including a 34.2% increase in those reported by gaming operators, according to figures released by the Financial Intelligence Office.
STRs emerging from the gaming industry rose from 1,546 in 2016 to 2,074 last year, comprising 67.2% of the total 3,085 reports that the Financial Intelligence Office received.
Financial institutions and insurance companies reported 746 STRs, up from 696 in 2016.
The Financial Intelligence Office said the increase in reports was “due to the continuous and increasing AML/CFT outreach programs carried out by [the office], which increase the awareness and vigilance of different sectors.”
A total of 135 STRs were sent to the Public Prosecutions Office in 2017.