Triad (organised crime)

Chinese transnational organised crime syndicate

A triad is a Chinese transnational organised crime syndicate based in Greater China with outposts in various countries having significant overseas Chinese populations. The triads originated from secret societies formed in the 18th and 19th centuries, some influenced by white lotus societies of the 14th century, with the intent of overthrowing the minority Manchu-ruling Qing dynasty. In the Republican era of early 20th century, triads were enlisted by the Nationalist regime to attack political enemies, including assassinations.

From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA. More on occurri.