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The government has issued SMS to Hong Kong residents in Thailand this afternoon (March 13) reminding them that Red Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) for Bangkok and surrounding areas is still in force. Those who are there should attend to their personal safety, and avoid protests and large gathering of people.
"Residents planning to visit these areas should adjust their travel plans and closely monitor the development." a government spokesman added.
The Security Bureau together with other relevant government bureaux and departments are closely monitoring the situation in Bangkok. They have been in close liaison with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in Hong Kong, the Chinese Embassy in Thailand and the associations of relevant trades like the Travel Industry Council. Any update will be issued through the media and the OTA webpage (www.sb.gov.hk/eng/ota).
Residents outside Hong Kong who need assistance may call the 24-hour hotline [(852) 1868] of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department.
Ends/Saturday, March 13, 2010
Issued at HKT 17:43
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