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Further to the statement issued yesterday, the Security Bureau spokesman today (September 3) advised Hong Kong residents who plan to visit Thailand soon to keep themselves up-to-date on developments there and consider adjusting or postponing their travel plans. Those who are already in Thailand should attend to their personal safety and avoid places of demonstrations or large gatherings of people.
"Over the past few days, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSARG) has kept a close and daily liaison with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the HKSAR and the Chinese Embassy in Thailand to keep in view the situation in Thailand. The HKSARG will continue to closely monitor developments. In deciding whether or not to issue a travel warning, the Security Bureau will consider the risks to the personal safety of Hong Kong residents in the light of the latest situation. After the declaration of a state of emergency in Bangkok, we understand that the city is generally calm except for some areas (mainly near the Government House)," the spokesman added.
Hong Kong residents in Thailand who need assistance may call the Hong Kong Immigration Department's 24-hour hotline at (852) 1868 or the Chinese Embassy in Thailand at (66) 818214771 or (66) 819840658.
From August 30 to 4pm today, the Immigration Department had received 29 requests for assistance, of which 28 cases have been resolved. The department is following up the remaining case.
Ends/Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:17
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