If you thought the Mafia across the pond were a dangerous lot, then you sure as hell don’t want to mess with their Taiwanese counterparts.

The Bamboo Union is the largest of Taiwan’s three main criminal triads, and it could put those Italian mafiosos to shame.

The gang, which comprises 10 000 members and counting, dabble in all sorts of criminal activities, including illegal gambling and drug trafficking.

It’s a powerful organisation, and it’s also downright brutal, especially when it comes to their own members.

Let me give you an example: if members try to betray the gang, expect them to pay the price with a limb or two.

Facts are facts – the Bamboo Union aren’t out here to play any games, my friends.

VICE was brave enough to meet up with a few active members of the Bamboo Union to find out everything about the gang, how they operate, what it takes to become a member and more.

The result? This mini-documentary that’s both incredible and bone-chilling:

Absolutely insane.

D’you hear that? That’s Al Capone shaking in his grave right now.

[source:vice]