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In the run-up to the National Day Golden Week, the Office of the Licensing Authority (OLA) under the Home Affairs Department (HAD), in a large-scale joint operation with the Police, last night (September 14) inspected 17 target premises in Tsim Sha Tsui that are suspected of violating the Hotel and Guesthouse Accommodation Ordinance.
To combat illegal operations, OLA officers always conduct investigations into, and operations against, potential unlicensed guesthouses from sources such as rental advertisements in newspapers and on the streets as well as public complaints. It has also worked in close collaboration with the Police and various government departments to extend its intelligence network and to arrange joint operations. OLA has taken relevant measures reminding visitors not to stay at unlicensed guesthouses. These include placing posters at boundary checkpoints and stepping up publicity via the network of the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Operating an unlicensed guesthouse is an offence liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and to imprisonment for two years and to a fine of $20,000 for each day during which the offence continues. Members of the public can report operation of any unlicensed guesthouses to OLA by calling 2881 7498.
A department spokesman stressed that enforcement action would continue to be taken against illegal guesthouse operations so as to ensure the safety of patrons of these establishments. It would also continue to step up publicity measures to remind visitors not to stay at unlicensed guesthouses.
Ends/Saturday, September 15, 2007
Issued at HKT 10:01
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