Police have smashed an illegal gambling syndicate following the arrest of 72 people in Yau Ma Tei early this morning.

Regional Crime Unit officers from Kowloon West mounted a surveillance operation against a triad-controlled illegal gambling syndicate several months ago.

They raided Yung Shue Tau Park at about 2.30 this morning and arrested 62 men and a woman. Some were playing "Dai Sai" and "Fan Tan" inside the park when they were arrested.

Police conducted more raids and arrested nine more men.

In all, 24 men and a woman were arrested for operating and assisting in the operating of an unlawful gambling establishment. The other 46 men and the woman were arrested for gambling in an illegal gambling establishment.

A total of $940,000 in cash and some gambling equipment were also seized during the operation.

Those arrested ranged in age from 16 to 60.

The Police stress that they will not tolerate any organised or syndicated gambling on the streets, and they will take immediate enforcement action against any illegal gambling activities.