Successful prosecution against illegal construction waste disposal by EPD following public report
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     A grab-mounted lorry driver who illegally dumped construction waste at Tung Tsz Valley, Tai Po, and was reported by a member of the public was fined a total of $4,000 by Fanling Magistrates' Courts today (March 28) for contravening the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO).

     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) received a complaint from a member of the public in mid-May last year about illegal dumping activities at Tung Tsz Valley, Tai Po, adjacent to the Education University of Hong Kong. The member of the public also provided video clips and photos captured during the incident to assist the EPD's investigation. With the captured licence plate mark and the reported information, the EPD was able to trace the driver involved. After evidence gathering, the driver was prosecuted in accordance with the WDO.

     An EPD spokesman urged members of the public to make a report to the department if they witness illegal dumping of waste by vehicles. They can provide relevant information such as videos or photos of the offence and the vehicle involved via the EPD hotline 2838 3111 to help combat illegal dumping activities.

     The spokesman also reminded members of the renovation, construction and transportation sectors that demolition waste as well as commercial and industrial waste should be delivered to the Government's waste treatment facilities, such as public fill banks or landfills, for proper disposal in accordance with the legal requirements. Under the WDO, it is an offence for anyone to dispose of waste in public places, on government land or without the permission of land owners. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. A maximum fine of $500,000 and six months' imprisonment may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.

Ends/Thursday, March 28, 2019
Issued at HKT 16:01

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