Plan territorial de sécurité et de prévention de la délinquance 2025-2028 : point de situation sur les orientations

Source: Gouvernement de la Nouvelle-Caledonie

Dans le cadre de la présentation du point d’étape du PTSPD 2025-2028, Isabelle Champmoreau, membre du gouvernement chargée de la protection de l’enfance et des sujets liés à la famille, a dévoilé aux côtés de Jacques Billant, haut-commissaire de la République le contexte et les enjeux de la sécurité en Nouvelle-Calédonie à travers des chiffres clés.

La délinquance en Nouvelle-Calédonie reste principalement urbaine, localisée et non structurée, fortement liée à la consommation d’alcool et de cannabis. Elle s’apparente majoritairement à une délinquance d’opportunité, spontanée, dont l’anticipation et le traitement demeurent complexes pour les forces de sécurité.

Chiffres clés du bilan de la délinquance 2025

2 840

victimes de violences intrafamiliales constatées

-15,82 %

de violences conjugales vs 2023

+23,20 %

de violences sexuelles enregistrées vs 2024

 

+46,67 %

de hausse des cambriolages de logements vs 2023

212 kg

de cannabis saisis en 2025

−76 %

d’incendies volontaires vs 2024

−48 %

destructions et dégradations de biens vs 2024

−11,56 %

cambriolages locaux professionnels vs 2023

 

 

 

Le Plan territorial de sécurité et de prévention de la délinquance

Le PTSPD permet de fixer un cadre stratégique de prévention à l’échelle pays, avec l’objectif  d’inverser la courbe de la délinquance et de changer le comportement des Calédoniens face aux conduites à risques.

 

Co-piloté par l’État (haut-commissariat) et le Gouvernement de la Nouvelle-Calédonie, il mobilise un écosystème partenarial large :

  • l’État : haut-commissariat, Parquet, douanes, police nationale, gendarmerie,  service pénitentiaire d’insertion et de probation (SPIP), centre pénitentiaire ;
  • la Nouvelle-Calédonie : gouvernement (plusieurs directions mobilisées), le Congrès, le CESE ;
  • des établissements publics : le centre hospitalier territorial (CHT) Gaston-Bourret, l’agence sanitaire et sociale (ASS-NC) ;
  • les provinces ;
  • les associations de maires ;
  • le Sénat coutumier

Le PTSPD 2025-2028 : des actions concrètes et mesurables

Une méthode pragmatique et resserrée a été arrêtée lors du comité de pilotage du 27 mai 2025, avec un portefeuille limité de 7 à 10 actions concrètes, sélectionnées pour leur impact mesurable, avec un suivi trimestriel et une validation progressive.

La lutte contre les addictions — particulièrement l’alcool — a été identifiée comme la priorité absolue du plan territorial. Toutes les actions du PTSPD s’inscrivent dans cette approche transversale.

Isabelle Champmoreau explique l’approche employée pour le PTSPD 2025-2028 : « Il y avait déjà un PTSPD qui comportait environ 130 actions. Il était donc difficile à mettre en œuvre et les effets étaient difficilement mesurables. Nous avons décidé, avec les partenaires, de réduire la feuille de route à dix actions, avec un axe prioritaire et transversal : la lutte contre les addictions, en ciblant particulièrement les publics jeunes. On constate que l’alcool et les stupéfiants sont en effet impliqués dans de nombreux faits de violence ».

Un nouvel appareil toxicologique : une avancée en matière d’investigation judiciaire

Plusieurs actions ont déjà été menées dans le cadre de la feuille de route du PTSPD. La convention de financement pour l’acquisition d’un appareil d’analyse toxicologique destiné au laboratoire de toxicologie du CHT Gaston-Bourret signée ce jour en fait partie. Elle représente une avancée majeure pour la justice calédonienne.

Actuellement, le laboratoire de toxicologie du CHT est équipé d’appareils anciens et partiellement obsolètes, dont certains datent de 2004. Ces équipements ne permettent plus de répondre aux exigences techniques, réglementaires et judiciaires en vigueur.

Pour la membre du gouvernement chargée de la protection de l’enfance et des sujets liés à la famille, « cet appareil va permettre d’aller plus loin dans l’analyse au niveau des stupéfiants, avec auparavant des analyses qui partaient en métropole. Donc ça, c’est très important pour avoir des informations en matière judiciaire, mais aussi pour lutter contre l’insécurité routière ».

La solution : un LC-MS/MS, technologie de référence

L’acquisition d’une chromatographie liquide couplée à la spectrométrie de masse en tandem (LC-MS/MS) permettra de :

  • Réaliser localement plus de 90 % des analyses médico-légales, en conformité avec les textes réglementaires (article R.235-5 du Code de la route, arrêté du 13 décembre 2016).
  • Analyser simultanément plusieurs centaines de substances en une seule analyse — stupéfiants, médicaments, nouveaux produits de synthèse (NPS), substances de soumission chimique.
  • Permettre l’analyse des prélèvements salivaires directement issus des contrôles routiers, sans systématiquement présenter le conducteur à un personnel médical pour réaliser un prélèvement sanguin.
  • Réduire drastiquement les délais de transmission des résultats aux autorités judiciaires.
  • Identifier les causes toxicologiques de décès en contexte médico-légal post-mortem.

L’appareil sera livré et installé au laboratoire du CHT fin 2026. Le coût total de cet équipement s’élève à 60 millions de francs financés par l’État (25 %), la Nouvelle-Calédonie (25 %), le CHT (30 %) et la province Sud (20 %).

Point d’étape de la feuille de route du PTSPD 

  • Structure d’accueil Thérapeutique, Éducatif et Pédagogique

La création d’une structure d’accueil des jeunes à besoins thérapeutiques, éducatifs et pédagogiques en Nouvelle-Calédonie répond à un besoin identifié depuis 2019 par les acteurs de terrain et confirmé par la justice. Cette structure médico-sociale accueillerait des enfants et adolescents présentant des troubles importants du comportement — sans déficience intellectuelle ni troubles psychotiques — qui perturbent gravement leur socialisation et leur accès aux apprentissages. Actuellement, aucune offre médico-sociale n’existe pour ces jeunes sur le territoire.

Une étude approfondie des besoins est actuellement menée pour définir précisément la nature et le dimensionnement de l’établissement à créer.

  • Encadrement de la vente d’alambics et de méthanol

Face à la production illicite d’alcool artisanal et aux intoxications graves au méthanol (alcool à brûler) constatées sur le territoire — notamment parmi les populations les plus vulnérables — le PTSPD a engagé deux textes réglementaires complémentaires.

Un avant-projet de loi du pays (DDOFD) a été rédigé et est désormais déposé au Congrès de la Nouvelle-Calédonie. De plus, un arrêté du gouvernement portant restriction de vente d’alcool à brûler (méthanol) a été présenté au gouvernement le 13 mai 2026. Il prévoit notamment l’interdiction de vente aux mineurs ainsi que la possibilité de contrôle d’identité par les commerçants.

  • Campagne de prévention des consommations pendant la grossesse

Le Baromètre Santé 2022 révèle des niveaux de consommation de substances psychoactives pendant la grossesse particulièrement préoccupants en Nouvelle-Calédonie. Les conséquences peuvent être dramatiques : prématurité, fausses couches, retard de croissance, mort subite, malformations, déficit intellectuel, troubles du comportement et addictions futures chez l’enfant.

 

Pour y répondre, le PTSPD, lance une campagne de communication pilotée par le cabinet d’Isabelle Champmoreau, à destination des futures mères et de leur entourage.

  • Entretiens individuels en lycée — prévention des addictions

Un dispositif innovant d’entretiens individuels sera déployé dans 5 lycées publics de Nouvelle-Calédonie, dans le cadre d’un projet pilote, pour détecter précocement les comportements à risque liés aux addictions. Il cible les élèves de seconde (générale et professionnelle) et de première année de CAP.

« C’est une nouveauté. Ce dispositif permettra de discuter avec nos jeunes lycéens de manière individuelle de la question de la prévention des addictions et de la santé sexuelle, a indiqué Isabelle Champmoreau. Pour nous, ça fait un lien en prévention avec la consommation, mais aussi tout ce qui est comportement au sein de la cellule familiale, du couple et donc la prévention par exemple sur les violences intrafamiliales ».

Ce projet pilote est déployé cette année en lien avec l’ASSNC, dans le cadre du plan de santé mentale. Il sera reconduit chaque année.

  • Lutte contre la récidive

Avec un fort taux de récidive (évalué à plus de 50 %), la population carcérale calédonienne cumule des problématiques complexes : addictions, déficit de formation professionnelle, pathologies somatiques et psychiatriques non ou mal prises en charge. Briser ce cycle est un impératif pour réduire durablement la délinquance.

Un groupe de travail pluripartite a été constitué, associant la Justice, la direction de la Protection judiciaire et de l’enfance et de la jeunesse (DPJEJ), la direction des Affaires sanitaires et sociales (DASS), le CHT, l’ASSNC, les provinces, le Vice-rectorat ainsi que le monde économique et associatif. Les travaux sont déjà engagés, notamment sur la validation des acquis de l’expérience (VAE), outil concret de réinsertion professionnelle par la reconnaissance de compétences acquises en détention.

  • ANTAI et modernisation du traitement des infractions routières

Le haut-commissariat, en lien avec les services de la Nouvelle-Calédonie, la direction du Numérique et de la modernisation (DINUM), les forces de sécurité de l’Intérieur et l’Agence nationale de traitement automatisé des infractions (ANTAI), conduit depuis février 2026 une étude de faisabilité portant sur la modernisation du traitement des infractions et le développement de solutions numériques de paiement dématérialisé des amendes.

Le projet vise à simplifier les démarches des usagers grâce au paiement numérique des amendes, améliorer l’efficacité du traitement des infractions, renforcer les capacités de recouvrement, moderniser les outils des forces de sécurité, et préparer le développement de procès-verbaux électroniques et d’amendes forfaitaires délictuelles (AFD) — particulièrement utiles dans la lutte contre la consommation de stupéfiants.

 

La réussite du Plan territorial de sécurité et de prévention de la délinquance repose sur la mobilisation durable de l’ensemble des acteurs institutionnels et leur capacité à travailler de manière coordonnée et efficace. La méthode pragmatique adoptée — centrée sur un nombre limité d’actions concrètes, mesurables et financées — a démontré sa pertinence et sera maintenue pour les prochains COPIL.

Address by President Lee Jae Myung on the 46th Anniversary of the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement

Source: Government of the Republic of Korea

(Unofficial Translation)

My fellow Koreans, citizens of Gwangju and Jeollanam-do Province, distinguished patriots of the May 18 Democratization Movement and bereaved families joining us here today,

This marks the forty-sixth May since the uprising – May that has risen above the deep scars of state violence and endured the spirit of solidarity and unity.

Forty-six years ago, the new military regime brutally crushed the spring of democratization beneath the boots of dictatorship. With the guns and bayonets entrusted to them by the people for their protection, they mercilessly massacred the sovereign citizens of this Republic.

To conceal its brutal atrocities, the ruthless dictatorial regime silenced the truth, and countless victims were denied peace, while their bereaved families and survivors were left to endure years of unspeakable grief.

Yet even in that bleak darkness, Gwangju’s yearning for a better world was never extinguished. Like spring flowers that rise at last towards the light, its hope endured.

The more the truth was suppressed, the more clearly it emerged; the more they tried to bury it, the farther and wider the spirit of May spread.

And at last, May was revived through the conscience of countless citizens who chose to stand on the side of truth and justice.

The spirit of May, thus reborn, saved those living on the night of December 3, 2024.

The living answered to the call of the dead, and those who had already departed lifted the present from the brink of despair.

Just as the citizens of Gwangju rose in defiance against martial-law troops in May 1980, so too did the great people of the Republic of Korea stand unarmed against armed martial-law forces in 2024.

In May 1980, during that brief moment when unjust power retreated, Gwangju citizens brought forth a great community of solidarity with all its strength. The same spirit was reborn as the Revolution of Light on a bitter winter night in December 2024, as citizens protected democracy by sharing warmth with one another.

Today, I bow my head in deepest respect and remembrance before the noble souls of the democratic martyrs of May, who willingly made the ultimate sacrifice for democracy.

I also extend my heartfelt tribute and consolation to the patriots and bereaved families who, through endless tears, have kept the torch of our times alight.

It is upon the unshakable foundation of the May 18 spirit, which upheld human dignity to the end even in the face of unspeakable violence, that the Republic of Korea has been able to advance along the path of democracy and prosperity.

Because of you that our democracy did not collapse at the turning points of our turbulent modern history. Because of you, it rose again and again.

We shall never forget that noble spirit, nor the sacrifice and devotion.

Fellow Koreans,

The December 3 insurrection was an unfinished question that left to us by May.

Democracy is neither achieved nor preserved without commitment.

Once again, we have learned through painful experience that democracy is fulfilled only through a sovereign people’s earnest aspirations and determined actions.

This government, founded on popular sovereignty, will continue to document, compensate, and honor the May 18 Democratization Movement, so that the Gwangju of 1980, which saved today’s Republic of Korea, may continue to safeguard our nation’s future. In the process, we will ensure that the lives sacrificed are justly compensated and held in the highest esteem.

Before the souls of May and before the people of Korea, I make three pledges today.

First, we will do everything in our power to enshrine the spirit of May 18 in the preamble of the Constitution.

The April 19 Revolution, the Busan-Masan Democratic Protests, and the May 18 Democratization Movement carried forward into the June 10 Democratic Struggle and ultimately into the Candlelight Revolution and the Revolution of Light.

The spirit of May – both the driving force that affirmed popular sovereignty and a source of immense pride in modern Korean history – must take even deeper root in our society. To that end, the democratic ideals of the May 18 Democratization Movement must be firmly and proudly inscribed in the Constitution of the Republic of Korea.

This has long been a promise made to the people that transcends political interest. I therefore urge both the ruling and opposition parties to demonstrate bipartisan resolve and leadership.

I also ask for the steadfast support of all Koreans, beyond the citizens of Gwangju and residents of Jeollanam-do Province.

Second, we will transform the restored former Jeollanam-do Provincial Government building, which officially opens today, into a living shrine of K-democracy, where people from around the world can come to learn and remember together.

The former Jeollanam-do Provincial Government building was the final stronghold of civic resistance against unlawful state violence. The bullet marks riddled across its walls stand as silent testimony to the horror of that day and the extraordinary courage of the citizen army.

The Gwangju of May is being reborn as a universal value remembered by people around the world through its inscription on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register and in writer Han Kang’s novel Human Acts.

The government will provide its full support to ensure that the spirit of sacrifice and solidarity preserved in the former Jeollanam-do Provincial Government building is passed down as a source of pride for the Republic of Korea and as a lasting value for future generations.

Third, we will establish a government-led system to register those honored for their contributions to the May 18 Democratization Movement, so that not a single sacrifice is ever overlooked.

Prior to my arrival here, I visited the May 18th National Cemetery, where the late martyr Yang Chang-geun, who fell to gunfire from the martial law forces, rests in peace.

This boy of May, who must have keenly felt the pain of the trampled justice in his homeland, has not yet been fully recognized as a person of national merit involved in the May 18 Democratization Movement. It is because he has no immediate family who could apply for registration on his behalf.

Now, the government will serve as a family member of each and every single victim of state violence.

The nation will fulfill its duties to the very end, ensuring that not a single person who worked to safeguard democracy and the homeland with an indomitable spirit is left alone.

Fellow Koreans,

A complex web of crises – including the weakening of growth potential, deepening inequality, upheaval in the international order and the depopulation of regional areas – is simultaneously threatening the present and future of the Republic of Korea.

The government is passing through the very heart of these turbulent waves together with the people, yet I see the future and hope for the Republic of Korea in the path that Gwangju has walked.

The joy of living together was shared in Gwangju in May 1980, and Geumnam-ro Street was awash with love and solidarity despite the brutal oppression of a dictatorship brandishing guns and bayonets.

People soothed one another’s pain amidst feelings of loneliness. Even in the depths of despair, they supported one another, mustering their last remaining warmth to sprout seeds of hope.

Gwangju has demonstrated the true face of a democratic republic in the plaza of peace, coexistence and consideration for others – created by citizens.

That radiant spirit of May 18 Democratization Movement has guided the Republic of Korea through every twist and turn of history along a path of change and hope. It now lives on in a new challenge: the integration of Gwangju and Jeollanam-do Province.

The joined hands of Gwangju and Jeollanam-do will stand as a new milestone of shared prosperity and coexistence, writing a new chapter in history of hope for balanced development.

That is why the memory of May and the spirit of May 18 are not merely legacies and relics of the past.

They are the courage to stand firm against injustice, the solidarity to overcome crises together, and the name of hope for a better tomorrow.

This government, founded on popular sovereignty, will faithfully carry forward the spirit of May 18 and boldly move toward the vision for which Gwangju long yearned: a nation where the people are truly sovereign.

I believe this is how we fulfill the responsibilities of the living and ensure that the noble sacrifices of the souls of May were not in vain.

Drawing on the spirit of freedom, equality and unity bequeathed by Gwangju in May, we will do everything in our power to overcome the current crises before us and pass on a brighter and more glorious future to the next generation.

Thank you.

Visite d’une délégation du ministère de la Justice au pôle industrie du GIEP à Bourail

Source: Gouvernement de la Nouvelle-Caledonie

Ci-joint une invitation presse dans le cadre d’une visite demain, mercredi 20 mai à 10 heures du pôle industrie du GIEP à Bourail par une délégation du ministère de la Justice aux côtés de Samuel Hnepeune, membre du gouvernement chargé de la formation professionnelle. 

Cette visite s’inscrit dans la continuité des échanges avec la magistrature, afin d’offrir une vision plus concrète des moyens mobilisables et des solutions envisageables en vue d’intégrer la formation professionnelle comme levier de réinsertion pour le public sous main de justice.

SEE begins visit to Xizang Autonomous Region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

​The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, began his visit to the Xizang Autonomous Region yesterday (May 18).

Upon his arrival in Xizang yesterday, Mr Tse visited the newly developed Lulang Town scenic area and Galai Village in Nyingchi city, with the latter being recognised as the “First Peach Blossom Village”, to learn about their measures and experience in balancing ecological conservation with the development of rural tourism in the natural environment of the plateau. In the evening, he visited a Xizang food exhibition hall to learn about the wide variety of food products produced in Xizang.

Mr Tse and the delegation continued their visit today (May 19). In the morning, they visited the Basum Tso scenic area, which is the first national 5A natural scenic attraction in the Xizang Autonomous Region, to gain a deeper understanding of how the locals protect the ecology of the Xizang plateau.

They then visited the first enterprise in the Xizang Autonomous Region with “export bee product raw material breeding farm” qualification. This enterprise has exported its honey to Hong Kong since early January this year, becoming the first batch of honey products exported from Xizang to Hong Kong. The enterprise representative briefed the delegation on the honey processing and production procedures, as well as its supply situation to Hong Kong.

Mr Tse later arrived in Lhasa and met with the Vice Chairman of the People’s Government of the Xizang Autonomous Region, Mr Zhao Peng, to exchange views on issues such as plateau food trade between the two places. Mr Tse said that the Xizang Autonomous Region, which is located on a plateau, yields a rich and diverse range of high-quality agricultural products with huge market potential. Being an international free port and a food trading hub, Hong Kong possesses robust food safety regulations and internationally recognised testing standards, as well as mature logistics and distribution networks. He said he looks forward to more food products from Xizang being supplied to Hong Kong, leveraging the city as a platform for Xizang’s plateau food to go global, thereby contributing to the collaborative development of the food industries and the exploration of new business opportunities for both places.

Mr Tse will continue his visit to the Xizang Autonomous Region tomorrow (May 20).

              

Hong Kong Customs detects two smuggling cases involving cross-boundary private cars

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Customs detects two smuggling cases involving cross-boundary private cars       
     In the first case, through risk assessment, Customs yesterday intercepted an outgoing private car at the Shenzhen Bay Control Point. After inspection, Customs officers found 400 live turtles and 222 live lizards concealed in the false compartment of spare tyre.
      
     In the second case, Customs intercepted an outgoing private car at Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port yesterday. After inspection, Customs officers found 27 live turtles and eight turtle eggs concealed under the hood of the vehicle, in which three live turtles and all the turtle eggs were suspected to be scheduled endangered species.
      
     Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the IEO, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.
      
     Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person importing, exporting or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction with the specimens forfeited.

     Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account ​(crimereport@customs.gov.hkIssued at HKT 19:54

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FEHD releases third batch of gravidtrap indexes for Aedes albopictus in May

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

FEHD releases third batch of gravidtrap indexes for Aedes albopictus in May  

District

District     The third batch of gravidtrap indexes for Aedes albopictus in May includes First Phase Gravidtrap Indexes covering seven survey areas and Area Gravidtrap Indexes covering 12 survey areas. Among which, 14 survey areas recorded gravidtrap indexes above 10 per cent, while Ho Man Tin in Kowloon City District; Yau Tong and Cha Kwo Ling, and Lam Tin and Sau Mau Ping in Kwun Tong District; Wong Tai Sin West in Wong Tai Sin District; Tai Wai in Sha Tin District; as well as Ma Wan and Sham Tseng in Tsuen Wan District, recorded gravidtrap indexes above 20 per cent.

     With reference to the data from the past few years, the gravidtrap indexes start to rise from April or May every year. The actual timing and extent of the rise are affected by factors like weather conditions and rainfall. The average temperature and rainfall recorded in April this year were higher than those in the same period last year, creating favourable conditions for mosquito growth and breeding. As a result, the rise in gravidtrap indexes occurred earlier this year. With the increase in rainfall in the first half of May, the gravidtrap indexes are expected to rise further.      Starting in August 2025, following the completion of the surveillance of individual survey areas, and once the latest gravidtrap index and the density index are available, the FEHD has been disseminating relevant information through press releases, its website and social media. It aims to allow members of the public to quickly grasp the mosquito infestation situation and strengthen mosquito control efforts, thereby reducing the risk of CF transmission.
      
     Following recommendations from the World Health Organization and taking into account the local situation in Hong Kong, the FEHD sets up gravidtraps in districts where mosquito-borne diseases have been recorded in the past, as well as in densely populated places such as housing estates, hospitals and schools to monitor the breeding and distribution of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which can transmit CF and dengue fever. At present, the FEHD has set up gravidtraps in 62 survey areas of the community, with a surveillance period of two weeks. During the surveillance period, the FEHD will collect the gravidtraps once a week. After the first week of surveillance, the FEHD will immediately examine the glue boards inside the retrieved gravidtraps for the presence of adult Aedine mosquitoes to compile the Gravidtrap Index (First Phase) and Density Index (First Phase). At the end of the second week of surveillance, the FEHD will instantly check the glue boards for the presence of adult Aedine mosquitoes. Data from the two weeks of surveillance will be combined to obtain the Area Gravidtrap Index and the Area Density Index. The gravidtrap and density indexes for Aedes albopictus in different survey areas, as well as information on mosquito prevention and control measures, are available on the department’s webpage (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/pestcontrol/dengue_fever/Dengue_Fever_Gravidtrap_Index_Update.html#Issued at HKT 19:38

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Immigration Department arrests 17 persons during operations targeting foreign domestic helpers who breached conditions of stay

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Immigration Department arrests 17 persons during operations targeting foreign domestic helpers who breached conditions of stay  
     During the operations, ImmD investigators raided 21 target locations, including restaurants, retail shops, hair salons, barbecue sites, and industrial and commercial buildings. The arrested nine suspected illegal workers comprised one man and eight women, aged 29 to 50. Among them, two persons were current helpers, three persons were overstaying ex-helpers, three persons were holders of recognisance forms, which prohibit them from taking any employment in Hong Kong, and one person was an imported worker. The suspected illegal workers were found engaging in food and beverage services, grocery shop operations, cleaning duties and hairdressing services. Meanwhile, eight suspected employers, comprising two men and six women aged 26 to 76, were owners or persons-in-charge of the companies and restaurants involved, or the contractual employers of the arrested foreign domestic helpers. The relevant cases are still under investigation, and the ImmD does not rule out the possibility of further arrests.
 
     In addition, to enhance public education, ImmD has released a new publicity video reminding employers not to employ foreign domestic helpers or arrange for them to engage in illegal work. The relevant video will be released on the official social media platforms of the ImmD.
 
     “A helper should only perform domestic duties for the employer as listed in the ‘Schedule of Accommodation and Domestic Duties’ attached to the Contract. The helper should not take up any other employment, including part-time domestic duties, with any other person. The employer should not require or allow the helper to carry out any work for any other person,” an ImmD spokesman said.

     The spokesman also said, “Any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him/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.” 
     The spokesman reiterated that it is a serious offence to employ people who are not lawfully employable. Under the Immigration Ordinance, the maximum penalty for an employer employing a person who is not lawfully employable, i.e. an illegal immigrant, a person who is the subject of a removal order or a deportation order, an overstayer or a person who was refused permission to land, has been significantly increased from a fine of $350,000 and three years’ imprisonment to a fine of $500,000 and 10 years’ imprisonment to reflect the gravity of such offences. The director, manager, secretary, partner, etc, of the company concerned may also bear criminal liability. The High Court has laid down sentencing guidelines that the employer of an illegal worker should be given an immediate custodial sentence.
 
     According to the court sentencing, employers must take all practicable steps to determine whether a person is lawfully employable prior to employment. Apart from inspecting a prospective employee’s identity card, the employer has the explicit duty to make enquiries regarding the person and ensure that the answers would not cast any reasonable doubt concerning the lawful employability of the person. The court will not accept failure to do so as a defence in proceedings. It is also an offence if an employer fails to inspect the job seeker’s valid travel document if the job seeker does not have a Hong Kong permanent identity card. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $150,000 and to imprisonment for one year. In that connection, the spokesman would like to remind all employers not to defy the law by employing illegal workers. The ImmD will continue to take resolute enforcement action to combat such offences. 
     For reporting illegal employment activities, please call the dedicated hotline 185 185, fax at 2824 1166, email anti_crime@immd.gov.hkIssued at HKT 19:32

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CHP continues to closely monitor Ebola outbreak in Africa and is vigilant in guarding against imported cases

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

CHP continues to closely monitor Ebola outbreak in Africa and is vigilant in guarding against imported cases       
Latest information from WHO
———————————

     According to the latest report from the WHO and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, as of May 18, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reported eight confirmed cases of Ebola disease, 395 suspected cases and 106 related deaths. Uganda has also reported two cases of Ebola disease and one related death.
      
Port health measures
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     At the same time, notices have been posted in the airport’s arrival area. The CHP has co-ordinated with the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) to broadcast announcements in the arrival hall. The CHP is also urging, through relevant airlines, passengers who have visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Uganda within the past 21 days to proactively declare their travel history to the Port Health Division officers upon arrival in Hong Kong for further health assessment. Regarding the isolation and referral mechanism for suspected cases, if an inbound traveller exhibits relevant symptoms and is assessed as a suspected case by the Port Health Division officers, arrangements will be made immediately to transfer the individual to the Hospital Authority (HA) Infectious Disease Centre for isolation and examination. The individual will remain in isolation until the specimens test negative for the virus.
      
     The CHP has also provided the AAHK and airlines with the latest information on the virus and urged airlines to remind their flight crews to strictly enforce established prevention and control measures if they identify suspected cases on their flights. Furthermore, the CHP has stepped up its publicity efforts at all boundary control points, including making public announcements and displaying posters, to remind travellers to be vigilant about Ebola.
      
Disease surveillance
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     As of today, no confirmed or suspected Ebola disease cases have been recorded in Hong Kong.
      
     In addition, the CHP convened a meeting yesterday (May 18) with representatives from the HA Head Office, Chief Infection Control Officer Office, and the HA’s experts in infectious disease and clinical microbiology, to discuss various issues thoroughly, including the isolation and testing of suspected cases, infection control measures and quarantine arrangements for close contacts.
      
Quarantine facilities
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Public education
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     The HKSAR Government announced on May 17 the activation of the Alert Response Level in accordance with the Response Plan to safeguard public health. Relevant government departments are fully prepared and will closely monitor the development of the epidemic, adjusting prevention and control strategies as necessary.
      
     As the current risk of infection is primarily concentrated in affected areas overseas, the CHP urged members of the public to exercise caution and avoid non-essential travel to affected countries and regions. Relevant travel advice has been uploaded to the Security Bureau’s Outbound Travel AlertsIssued at HKT 18:52

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Ombudsman probes secretariat services and administrative support provided by Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The following is issued on behalf of the Office of The Ombudsman:

In view of the growing community concern over animal protection, the Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, today (May 19) announced the launch of a direct investigation operation to examine the secretariat services and administrative support provided by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong (VSB), particularly with regards to its handling of complaints against registered veterinary surgeons and related arrangements.

According to government statistics, over 240,000 households in Hong Kong keep pets, with the total number of pets exceeding 400,000, reflecting a strong demand for veterinary services in the community. The VSB, a statutory body established under the Veterinary Surgeons Registration Ordinance, is responsible for regulating veterinary surgeons in Hong Kong, including registration and disciplinary matters. The Secretariat of the VSB (Secretariat), under the AFCD’s purview, provides secretarial and administrative support.

The Office notes recurring concerns about the cumbersome procedures for lodging complaints against veterinary surgeons, and that the Secretariat’s handling of such complaints is unduly prolonged. There are views that even if the VSB determines, after a disciplinary inquiry, that a veterinary surgeon has committed professional misconduct or acted negligently, the public announcement of the decision is subject to serious delays, preventing the public from being informed in time to raise awareness and make informed decisions about veterinary services. In addition, the Office has received complaints highlighting shortcomings in the Secretariat’s arrangements for disciplinary inquiries and its handling of enquiries, indicating potential room for improvement in its administration and service standards.

Mr Chan said, “The proper handling of complaints against registered veterinary surgeons has a direct bearing on the quality of veterinary services and public confidence in the profession, and is closely correlated with animal health and welfare. The VSB is statutorily mandated to regulate, register and exercise disciplinary control of veterinary surgeons, and its ability to effectively perform these duties depends heavily on whether the administrative support provided by the Secretariat is proper. In this light, I have decided to launch a direct investigation operation to examine the procedures and mechanisms through which the Secretariat supports the VSB in handling matters related to the regulation of veterinary surgeons, and review the AFCD’s supervisory role to identify areas for improvement and, where necessary, make pertinent recommendations.”

Mr Chan said, “The Office earlier announced the results of a direct investigation operation into the Government’s work in combating cruelty to animals, which attracted widespread public attention. Combating animal cruelty and protecting vulnerable lives is not a task that can be accomplished overnight; it requires the sustained and unwavering commitment of all sectors of society, including government authorities, non-governmental organisations and the wider public. This direct investigation operation is the second one of our series of investigations in relation to animal protection.”

The Ombudsman today also visited the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Jockey Club Centennial Centre (Tsing Yi Centre) and met with its Executive Director, Ms Fiona Cumming, to gain an insight into the SPCA’s work in preventing animal cruelty and rescuing injured animals, as well as its perspectives on related issues.

During the meeting, Ms Cumming briefed Mr Chan on the SPCA’s latest efforts and challenges in handling suspected cases of animal cruelty, rescuing injured and abandoned animals, and promoting public education. Mr Chan also toured the facilities at the Centre, including the veterinary and animal care facilities, to learn about how frontline staff provide immediate treatment and rehabilitation support for injured animals. He spoke with staff members about their experiences in handling suspected cases of animal cruelty.

Mr Chan said, “Many animal protection organisations in the community have been working tirelessly to promote animal welfare. During our direct investigation operation, we received full support from the SPCA, the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden and relevant animal rescue organisations. Through their outstanding work in animal protection, emergency rescues and public education, these organisations demonstrate compassion and social responsibility, and truly deserve praise.”

Mr Chan added, “The media have recently reported on a suspected case of animal abuse and abandonment. The Police responded swiftly and decisively, leading to the arrest of the suspects within days. The action is highly commendable in fully demonstrating the Government’s commitment and determination to combat animal cruelty, and conveying a clear and powerful message to society.”

The Office will continue to follow up on the implementation of relevant policies and measures, with a view to fostering a more compassionate and caring society.

The Ombudsman welcomes views from members of the public on this topic. Written submissions should reach the Office of The Ombudsman by June 19, 2026:

Address: 30/F, China Merchants Tower, Shun Tak Centre
              168-200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
Fax: 2882 8149
Email: di490@ombudsman.hk