No new requests for assistance received from HK residents in Thailand
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     Since Bangkokˇ¦s international airport resumed operation last night (December 3), the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit (AHU) of the Immigration Department has not received any new requests for assistance from Hong Kong people because they were stranded in Bangkok, a spokesman for the Security Bureau said today (December 4).

     The spokesman said Cathay Pacific would resume flights to and from Bangkok from tomorrow (December 5). Some other airlines had also resumed their flights between Hong Kong and Bangkok.

     Since the international airport in Bangkok was closed due to protests on November 26, the AHU has received requests for assistance from 969 Hong Kong residents. A total of 961 had already returned or, with AHUˇ¦s assistance, found seats on flights to soon fly back to Hong Kong. The remaining cases involve incorrect contact information or withdrawal of cases.

     The spokesman reminded Hong Kong residents who planned to go to Thailand to pay close attention to any change of situation there before their trip.  Those who need to visit Bangkok should confirm their flight and transport arrangements beforehand.  They are also advised to avoid places of protests and large gatherings of people during their stay in Bangkok.

     Residents who need assistance while outside Hong Kong may call the AHU 24-hour hotline at (852) 1868.

Ends/Thursday, December 4, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:32

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