Similar to Italian-American criminal groups, Asian gangs were first formed long ago and consisted of outlaws, bandits and several other kinds of notorious malcontents. Today they are still highly organized and engaged in a myriad of illicit ventures like extortion, drug smuggling, prostitution and murder. This article looks at the origin of some high profile criminal fraternities hailing from China, Japan and the relatively new gangs of Vietnamese and Laotian heritage that are developing a reputation for extreme violence.
The Chinese Triads
The Chinese Triads, or secret societies, were formed out of self-preservation, patriotism and unity. In the late 17th century in mainland China the Qing dynasty, which was set up by the northern Manchu rulers, was seen as a repressive regime against the Han majority and was at the same time trying to break the rule of the older, weakened Ming dynasty. Kang-Hsi, the second emperor of the Qing, did not tolerate the existence of secret societies and outlawed Buddhist and Taoist practices.
As a direct consequence of these extreme policies the Hung Mun group was created. Secret forms of communication were developed to confuse and frustrate the spies of Kang-Hsi and to foster a sense of brotherhood and loyalty.