ImmD and FEHD Joint Operation Arrests Suspected Illegal Workers in Mong Kok

2024-08-12 19:18 Last Updated At：19:28

Two persons arrested during anti-illegal worker operation

The Immigration Department (ImmD) mounted a joint enforcement operation with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) yesterday (August 11) in the vicinity of Mong Kok Road. ImmD Task Force and Foreign Domestic Helpers Special Investigation Section officers arrested two suspected illegal workers during the operation, who are foreign domestic helper women aged 44 and 47. They were suspected to have breached their condition of stay in Hong Kong by engaging in illegal hawking and selling food on a pedestrian footbridge. FEHD officers seized some hawker equipment and commodities in the vicinity that were suspected to have been abandoned.

An ImmD spokesman said, "A foreign domestic helper should only perform domestic duties for the employer specified in the Standard Employment Contract. The helper could not carry out any non-domestic work, or take up, or join or establish any business other than the contracted domestic work, whether paid or unpaid, in Hong Kong. Any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him or her shall be guilty of an offence. 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."

Under the existing mechanism, the ImmD will, as a standard procedure, conduct an initial screening of vulnerable persons, including illegal workers, illegal immigrants, sex workers and foreign domestic helpers, who are arrested during any operation with a view to ascertaining whether they are trafficking in persons (TIP) victims. When any TIP indicator is revealed in the initial screening, the ImmD officers will conduct a full debriefing and identification by using a standardised checklist to ascertain the presence of TIP elements, such as threats and coercion in the recruitment phase and the nature of exploitation. Identified TIP victims will be provided with various forms of support and assistance, including urgent intervention, medical services, counselling, shelter or temporary accommodation and other supporting services. The ImmD calls on TIP victims to report crimes to the relevant departments immediately.

Hong Kong Films Shine at Chicago's Asian Pop-up Cinema, Strengthening Cultural Ties

2025-04-06 16:00 Last Updated At：16:08

New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York (New York ETO) supported Season 19 of Chicago’s Asian Pop-up Cinema (APUC) by showcasing nine exceptional Hong Kong films and documentaries, including the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4 (Chicago time).

The Office also strengthened the cultural, business and educational ties between Hong Kong and Chicago, Illinois, during a duty visit to the city from April 3 to 5.

At the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4, Hong Kong actress Michelle Wai was honoured with the Extraordinary Actors Award for her outstanding performance. Director Anselm Chan joined her at the post-screening sharing session.

This year's APUC also welcomed four Hong Kong filmmakers, who presented their works and engaged with the audience. They included directors Ho Miu-ki ("Love Lies") and Albert Mak ("Hit N Fun"), as well as producers Chan Hing-ka ("Love Lies") and Paul Chan ("To Be Continued").

Addressing the award ceremony, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, praised the filmmakers, noting that they represent the diverse and exceptional talents within Hong Kong's creative industry.

"Through our Film Development Fund, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government continues to support and nurture the growth of Hong Kong's creative industry, ensuring its presence on the global stage. By fostering talent, enhancing local production, and expanding audiences, we remain committed to bringing the best of Hong Kong cinema to the world," she said.

On April 3, the New York ETO cohosted a spring reception with the Hong Kong Business Association of the Midwest and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council . The annual event, attended by over 100 guests from Chicago's business, legal, academic, and cultural sectors, highlighted the strong ties between Hong Kong and Chicago.

Ms Ho noted in her welcome remarks that the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, adaptability, and transformation, perfectly reflects Hong Kong's ability to continuously reinvent itself while maintaining its leadership in finance and trade. The event also showcased the works of Chicago-based Hong Kong artist Cherry Tung and featured a Hong Kong-themed cocktail.

Ms Ho also had a meeting with Vice President for International Relations at Northwestern University Devora Grynspan to discuss areas of mutual interest and introduce Hong Kong's talent admission schemes available to university graduates. Northwestern University is among the list of eligible institutions under the Top Talent Pass Scheme.