Britain warned of threat from illegal operators in Asia

Asia's leading betting integrity expert has warned British authorities not to underestimate the growing threat from illegal online operators based in the world’s biggest gambling region.

One operator, Citibet, is believed to have cornered turnover in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Macau worth more than 20 per cent of the legal market.

Martin Purbrick, director of security and integrity at the Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: "The development of the internet and use of mobile phones has produced a massive new group of customers for betting and a range of unlicensed bookmakers.