Three persons convicted for entering water at gathering ground
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     Three persons were convicted of entering water at the gathering ground in Shui Lo Cho at Yi O on Lantau Island in contravention of the Waterworks Ordinance. They pleaded guilty at Eastern Magistrates' Courts today (November 19) and were each fined $500.

     "The gathering ground and the impounding reservoirs are both sources of fresh water. Members of the public should refrain from contaminating them. Hikers in particular should protect these precious water resources while enjoying the beautiful scenery there. Furthermore, the gathering ground and the impounding reservoirs are prone to serious flooding and therefore dangerous. They are definitely not suitable for water play or swimming," a spokesman for the Water Supplies Department (WSD) said.

     The WSD received complaints in late August this year concerning illegal entry to the water source at the gathering ground in Shui Lo Cho at Yi O, which caused pollution to fresh water resources. The department promptly took enforcement action with the Police.

     According to the Waterworks Ordinance, any person who bathes or washes in the waterworks is liable to prosecution, and on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for two years.

     Members of the public are advised to report any suspected violations of the Waterworks Ordinance to the WSD's 24-hour hotline at 2824 5000.

Ends/Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Issued at HKT 14:30

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