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Police arrested 23 Vietnamese illegal immigrants (VMII) who landed on the shore of Sandy Bay, Western early this (May 15) morning.

Speaking at a press briefing after the arrest, Regional Commander, Hong Kong Island, Chung Hiu-pang said that Police are capable of and determined to combat all illegal immigration related activities.

"The operation conducted this morning reflected the prompt reaction and efficiency of the Police Force in handling cases involving illegal immigrants," he added.

Police received reports of six robberies and two burglaries between 3.30 am and 6.45 am at Mount Davis Road, Smithfield, Bisney Road, Sassoon Road and Sandy Bay Road.

Officers from the Uniformed Branch, Emergency Units, Police Tactical Unit, Police Dog Unit and Marine Region were immediately deployed to conduct thorough searches.

During the search, Marine police officers located a wooden motorized boat off North Point near City Garden and two VMIIs on board the boat were immediately arrested.

Measuring three metres by nine metres, Police believed that the boat has been used to carry VMIIs who landed at Sandy Bay early this morning.

Another 21 Vietnamese men were arrested in various locations near Sandy Bay.

Five pieces of detonators, 38 rounds of ammunition and six knives were seized from the VMIIs.

The 23 men, aged between 20 and 40, were arrested for offences including illegal immigration, possession of offensive weapons, possession of ammunition and possession of explosive and are still being detained for further enquiries.

Investigations by the Regional Crime Unit, Hong Kong Island are continuing.

Police Report No.2

Issued by PPRB

End/ 1700 hours, Thursday, May 15, 2003 (MH/KO)

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