Macau casino ops to stage terror attack drills to test response

Macau authorities are teaming up with casino operators to prepare for the unthinkable: a terror-style attack on defenseless casino customers.

On Monday, the government of the special administrative region of China issued a statement detailing its ongoing discussions with Macau’s six casino concessionaires regarding ways to enhance security to protect guests and staff.

The casino markets of Manila and Las Vegas were both subjected to deadly attacks by lone wolves this year. In June, the Resorts World Manila casino was targeted by a gunman who started a fire that claimed the lives of 37 guests. Earlier this month, a gunman opened fire on an outdoor concert in Las Vegas, killing 59 music fans.

Following the Vegas attack, Macau authorities summoned the SAR’s casino operators to discuss ways to beef up security in the hopes of avoiding or minimizing the impact of similar attacks. On Monday, Macau officials issued a statement that said the casino operators had agreed to participate in mock drills to test their ability to respond to threats.