Government gets in touch with two HK women in Argentina
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     The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was informed by the Chinese Embassy in Argentina today (February 24) that the two women who were allegedly unlawfully detained in Argentina have contacted the Chinese Embassy on their own initiative.

     The women, one 17-year-old and the other 18-year-old, are safe and the staff of the Chinese Embassy in Argentina is rendering assistance to them. The women are currently assisting the Argentinian Police's enquiries into their detention.

     Hong Kong Police are very concerned about the case and have contacted the relevant departments in Argentina. Police are also sending a team of three Police Inspectorate Officers to Argentina to assist its Argentinian counterparts to investigate the case. They will meet with the two women upon their arrival.

     The Immigration Department will also maintain close contact with the two women and their family, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Chinese Embassy in Argentina to provide all practical assistance.

     Police received two reports on February 20 and 21 respectively that two women were unlawfully detained in Argentina and requested assistance from Police.

     Regional Crime Unit of New Territories North took over the case and investigation is underway.

Ends/Sunday, February 24, 2013
Issued at HKT 21:33

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