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The underground world was heavily armed. Criminals and gangs sought firearms to elevate their status and dominance. Possession of guns was a symbol of power within the triads and gangs, with weapons ranging from old models like revolvers and shotguns to more sophisticated automatic pistols. Smuggling operations flourished, often involving criminal elements traveling to Thailand and other neighboring countries like Vietnam and Cambodia to source weapons, especially during the Vietnam War when arms were plentiful and sold cheaply in illegal markets.