Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Immigration Department (ImmD) mounted a series of territory-wide anti-illegal worker operations codenamed “Twilight”, “Contribute” and “Lightshadow”; a joint operation with the Labour Department codenamed “Fastrack”; a joint operation with the Hong Kong Police Force codenamed “Windsand”; and a joint operation with the Hong Kong Police Force and Hong Kong Customs, from July 31 to yesterday (August 6). During the anti-illegal worker operations, ImmD officers raided multiple target locations including restaurants, massage parlours and flats under renovation. Twelve suspected illegal workers were arrested. The arrested suspected illegal workers comprised 10 men and two women, aged 35 to 62. Among them, a man was holding a recognisance form which prohibits him from taking any employment. An investigation into the suspected employers is ongoing, and the possibility of further arrests is not ruled out.
An ImmD spokesman said, “Any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him or her shall be guilty of an offence. Also, visitors are not allowed to take employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, without the permission of the Director of Immigration. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalties.”