{ABZ} Asian Boyz

[Yileuo]

Asian boyz ​

Asian Boyz grew from a Cambodian gang and drew its members from Cambodian, Laotian, Vietnamese, ethnic Chinese born in Vietnam, Chinese youths, and other groups. The lax membership rules enabled the gang to grow quickly. Some members relocated to find work. Others left the area because their parents moved to find new jobs. Others left to flee law enforcement or to live with extended family or friends. Asian Boyz gangs developed throughout the country, especially along the west coast and in the Midwest. Asian Boyz have become one of the more violent gangs encountered by criminal justice professionals. Many members use blue-colored railroad handkerchiefs as part of their attire. The gangs make money by committing street crimes and seek to enhance their reputation within the gang subculture. Their crimes center mainly around murder, home invasion robbery, extortion, witness intimidation, attempted murder, robbery, and assault. Some gang members have sold drugs. Many Asian Boyz crimes are crimes of opportunity. Leadership is fluid. The gangs may also have an affiliate female gang known as the Asian Chicks, who carry contraband, including guns.

Rivalries​

The Asian Boyz (ABZ), a predominantly Cambodian American street gang founded in Long Beach, California, in the late 1980s, have been involved in several significant rivalries:

---

Tiny Rascal Gang (TRG)​

Both ABZ and TRG emerged from Cambodian refugee communities in Long Beach. Initially, TRG was formed in the mid-1980s to protect Cambodian youths from other gangs, notably the East Side Longos. However, internal disputes within TRG led to a faction breaking away to form the Asian Boyz in the late 1980s. The rivalry intensified in the 1990s, marked by violent confrontations, including shootings and stabbings. The conflict was fueled by territorial disputes and competition for dominance within the Cambodian-American community.
​

Sources:

​

East Side Longos​

The East Side Longos, a predominantly Mexican-American gang, were among the early adversaries of the Cambodian community in Long Beach. Their hostility towards Cambodian youths contributed to the formation of protective groups like TRG and, subsequently, ABZ. Even after the establishment of ABZ, remnants of hostility persisted, with occasional skirmishes and territorial disputes.​

Sources:

https://www.reddit.com/r/CaliConnection/comments/151kt00

​

Causing havoc in Long Beach
​

ABZ’s emergence in the late 1980s coincided with a surge in gang violence in Long Beach and surrounding areas. Their rivalry with the Tiny Rascals Gang (TRG) led to numerous violent incidents, including shootings and stabbings, often rooted in territorial disputes. A notable incident was the 1993 murder of Lea Mek, a member of ABZ, by the Wah Ching gang. This event sparked a series of retaliatory actions, escalating tensions and contributing to a broader pattern of gang-related violence in the region. Law enforcement agencies have documented these activities, highlighting the gang’s involvement in violent crimes and their impact on community safety. For instance, a 2001 article in Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine discusses the nature, activities, and geographic spread of the Asian Boyz gang, emphasizing their role in violent crime.



​

Drug Trafficking & Organized Crime​

ABZ has been implicated in drug trafficking operations, often in collaboration with other criminal organizations. In 2023, nine members and associates of the Asian Boyz gang were charged with drug trafficking and firearm offenses in Massachusetts, underscoring their involvement in organized crime beyond California. The gang’s activities have been part of a broader trend of Asian gangs becoming increasingly involved in more sophisticated crimes, including narcotics distribution and organized criminal enterprises. A report by the National Institute of Justice notes that Asian gangs are increasingly involved in more sophisticated crime and have become more mobile, complicating law enforcement efforts.​

Sources:

How Will Changes in the Asian Population Impact Street Gang-related Crime in California? | Office of Justice Programs

www.ojp.gov

Nine Members and Associates of Asian Boyz Gang Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses

BOSTON – Nine members and associates of the Asian Boyz (ABZ) gang have been charged in connection with drug trafficking conspiracies and dealing in firearms, including machinegun conversion devices – commonly known as “switches.”

www.justice.gov

​

Representation​

The Asian Boyz (ABZ) gang employs various methods to represent their identity, assert territorial claims, and communicate both internally and externally.​

ABZ members use graffiti to mark territory and send messages. Common elements include:​

• “ABZ” or “AB”: The primary identifiers of the gang.
  ​

• “1226”: A numerical tag representing their founding date, December 26.
  ​

• Dragon imagery: Symbolizing strength and heritage.
  ​

• Stylized lettering: Often incorporating Asian motifs or calligraphy styles.
  ​

These tags are found on walls, train cars, and other public spaces, serving as both identification and a form of intimidation.




​

ABZ members often wear clothing that signifies their affiliation:​

• Colors: Primarily blue and navy, aligning with Crip affiliations.
  ​

• Logos: “ABZ” or “Asian Boyz” emblazoned on jackets, hats, or shirts.
  ​

• Accessories: Bandanas, chains, and other items that reinforce group identity.
  ​

These clothing choices serve as visual markers of affiliation and are often used to assert presence in various neighborhoods.



​

ABZ members utilize specific hand signs to communicate affiliation:

​

• “ABZ” sign: Forming the letters “A,” “B,” and “Z” with fingers.
  ​

• Dragon symbol: Representing the gang’s heritage and strength.
  ​

These signs are used in interactions with other gang members and serve as a form of non-verbal communication.



​

Music, particularly rap and hip-hop, is a significant outlet for ABZ members:​

• Lyrics: Songs often reference gang life, rivalries, and street experiences.
  ​

• Artists: Members like $tupid Young have gained recognition for their music, which reflects their experiences and affiliations.
  ​

• Themes: Tracks may discuss loyalty, struggle, and the challenges faced by Asian-American youth in gang-involved communities.
  ​

Music serves as both a form of artistic expression and a tool for spreading the gang’s identity and messages.

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

​

Interviews and documentaries provide insight into ABZ’s culture and activities:​

• Interviews: Gang members and former members discuss their experiences, motivations, and the realities of gang life.
  ​

• Documentaries: Provide a broader perspective on the gang’s impact and the socio-economic factors influencing its formation and activities.
  ​

These media representations help to understand the complexities of gang affiliation and the challenges faced by members.

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

​