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A 61-year-old man was convicted by the Kwun Tong Magistrates' Court today (September 7) of assaulting a tobacco control inspector (TCI) and obstructing TCIs in the exercise of their duty.
The man was sentenced to four and two weeks' imprisonment respectively, suspended for 12 months. He was also fined $1,500 for the smoking offence and $500 for failing to produce his ID card.
The incident took place in Choi Ming Market in Tseung Kwan O on July 7, 2011. The man assaulted a TCI when a team of inspectors were inspecting the premises. He was subsequently arrested and charged by the Police.
A spokesman for the Department of Health urged the public to observe the smoking ban requirements and to cooperate with law enforcement officers.
"Intimidation or use of violence on enforcement officers is a serious offence and carries serious legal consequences," the spokesman said.
Ends/Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:51
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