Permanent metal detectors, a special ops team, increased crisis training of staff and the banning of large bags from gaming floors are among the measures being implemented in Macau’s casinos in the wake of the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas that saw 58 people lose their lives.

The new security recommendations follow a meeting between the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), the Judiciary Police and representatives of the security department of Macau’s six concessionaires on 11 October.

In a Monday statement, the DICJ described its objectives as “monitoring the security enhancement measures taken by [the concessionaires] and the implementation of the crisis communication mechanism, thus ensuring the reinforcement of the security measures of all casinos in the Macau SAR” following the Las Vegas incident and the attack on Resorts World Manila in June.

DICJ Director Paulo Martins Chan revealed that all operators have since purchased permanent arcade metal detectors which will soon be installed at casino entrances. They have been instructed to use portable detectors in the meantime.

The operators have also announced the banning of large travel bags from gaming floors and new training regimes for frontline staff including “intensive physical training” for casino security staff and training in crisis management and identification of suspects. The number of security personnel at the city’s integrated resorts has been increased.

Director of Macau’s Judiciary Police, Chau Wai Kuong, has recommended the establishment of a special operations team with protective equipment, with the aim of responding to unexpected events before the arrival of police “in order to reduce the possible number of wounded or dead.”

He has also suggested simulation drills in conjunction with casino operators and the DICJ to improve staff skills in dealing with unexpected events and to test “the existing communication mechanisms and relevant equipment.”

The DICJ said it would “continue to closely monitor the security measures of casinos and will strictly monitor the implementation of those measures and to carry out their evaluation.

“It will also improve and optimize the supervision whenever necessary in order to guarantee the safety of citizens, employees and visitors and to help build up Macau as a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.”

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