Must-Read Today: Immigration Department Arrests 20 in Crackdown on Illegal Workers
The Hong Kong Immigration Department has recently intensified its crackdown on illegal workers, arresting 20 people in operations across multiple districts in Hong Kong. Additionally, a traveler was sentenced to imprisonment for bringing untaxed cigarettes and e-cigarettes into the city, and the government announced adjustments to bank licensing fees and the issuance of new government bonds.
Between June 10 and June 16, the Immigration Department (ImmD) conducted an anti-illegal worker operation codenamed "Operation Promote." Law enforcement officers arrested a total of 20 people during the operation. These actions are aimed at combating violations of the Immigration Ordinance and protecting employment opportunities for the local workforce.
In terms of law and safety, a Chinese male was sentenced to imprisonment by the court for illegally importing untaxed cigarettes and "alternative smoking products" (such as e-cigarettes or heated tobacco products) without declaring them to Customs. This case serves as a reminder to all incoming travelers that, under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, importing such products is an offense and must be declared in accordance with the law, or they will face criminal penalties.
Regarding financial news, the government today notified the Legislative Council that it will submit a resolution to adjust licensing-related fees payable by banks and financial institutions under the Banking Ordinance. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced that it will conduct a tender on June 24, on behalf of the SAR Government, for 5-year and 10-year Hong Kong dollar government institutional bonds. These bonds are financial instruments used by the government to raise funds from institutional investors.
Furthermore, Hong Kong Customs yesterday seized approximately 240 kg of suspected controlled dried guitarfish fins (a type of legally protected ray) at the Kwai Chung Customhouse, with an estimated market value of about HK$500,000. Customs is currently investigating the case to curb the illegal trade of endangered species.
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