The British and Chinese governments' reluctance to govern the walled city led to a power vacuum filled by organized crime, particularly the triads. As the population swelled to over 17,000, the area became notorious for its lack of regulations, resulting in a chaotic construction boom and a unique, dystopian landscape. Despite the high crime rate, most residents were not involved in illegal activities and even supported police efforts to regain control by the early 1980s.
