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Barge captain and crane operator convicted for illegal marine dumping following public complaint
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     A barge captain and a barge crane operator, who illegally dumped waste in waters south of Ap Lei Chau last June, were fined a total of $16,000 by Eastern Magistrates' Courts today (January 15) for contravening the Dumping at Sea Ordinance (DASO).

     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) received a complaint with video recording from a member of the public last June that a barge had dumped sand and waste wooden boards into the waters south of Ap Lei Chau. The EPD traced the barge captain and crane operator involved according to the information and video recording provided by the public. Upon in-depth investigation and evidence gathering, the EPD initiated prosecution against the two people.

     It is an offence for anyone to illegally dump waste or substances at sea and such illegal activity will pollute the marine environment. An EPD spokesman reminded those responsible for marine works and marine transportation that they should properly dispose of all dismantled materials and waste generated from works. They should also properly train and manage their staff and must not contravene the law by dumping waste at sea. According to the DASO, first-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment.

     The spokesman urged members of the public to make a report to the EPD if they witness any vessel being involved in waste dumping.

     More information about the control of marine dumping is available on the EPD's website: www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/daso_gr.html.
 
Ends/Monday, January 15, 2018
Issued at HKT 15:15
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