From Gangster to Good Citizen: My Journey of Transformation

🔫Triad members often use knives instead of guns due to strict firearm laws in Hong Kong

💼Triad members engage in legal businesses such as production companies and bowling alleys, as well as underground businesses including money laundering and drug trafficking

🎥Triad members have significant control over the movie industry in Hong Kong, with actors and actresses being members of triads

🤝Triad members have unique handshakes that indicate their position within the organization

⚖️Triad members follow strict rules including obedience to the boss, no stealing from or lying to fellow members, and not taking each other's romantic partners

What is the leadership structure of triad organizations?

—Triad organizations have a hierarchical structure with a boss at the top, followed by generals, soldiers, and blue lanterns

How do triads make money?

—Triads make money through various means, including protection money from businesses, involvement in legal and underground businesses, and extortion

Are triads still active in Hong Kong today?

—While the influence of triads in Hong Kong has decreased over the years, they still exist and have connections with criminal activities

Are there rivalries and conflicts between triad groups?

—Yes, rivalries and conflicts between triad groups over territory and power are common, often resulting in violence

What led you to leave the triad life?

—After being shot and realizing the toll the gang life was taking on him, the former triad member decided to quit and live a normal life

00:00The speaker introduces himself as a former high-level member of the Sun Yee On triad in Hong Kong and shares his nickname, Bighead

00:17The speaker explains his decision to leave the triad life after being shot five times and getting tired of the violence

00:55He discusses the structure of triads, including the roles of generals, soldiers, and blue lanterns

02:24The speaker describes how triads have connections in different countries, and he specifically mentions his experience in New York

03:46He talks about the role of triads in illegal businesses like drug trafficking and money laundering

05:13The speaker emphasizes the influence of triads in various industries, including the movie business, where they have control over casting

06:28He explains the use of nicknames and handshakes among triad members as a way to identify each other's positions

09:14The speaker discusses the hierarchical structure of triad organizations, which includes a boss, generals, soldiers, and blue lanterns

10:38He mentions the involvement of triads in businesses such as nightclubs and the collection of protection money

13:29The speaker shares his decision to quit the triad life and the challenges he faced in leaving the organization

14:11He reveals that he was shot because of a conflict between his soldiers and members of another triad

15:48The speaker explains that after leaving the triad, he handed over responsibilities to his soldiers and distanced himself from the organization

16:18He mentions that he was questioned by the FBI but didn't reveal any information as he had already left the gang

18:44The speaker concludes by stating that triads still exist but are facing more challenges and increased scrutiny today