DH prosecutes two persons for suspected violation of compulsory quarantine requirement
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        The Department of Health (DH) today (February 17) said that summons will be issued against two persons suspected to have violated the Compulsory Quarantine of Certain Persons Arriving at Hong Kong Regulation (Cap. 599C) (the Regulation) and solemnly reminded persons under compulsory quarantine to comply with the requirements under the Regulation for the 14-day compulsory quarantine.
 
        Since the compulsory quarantine measure was implemented on February 8, four Hong Kong residents under compulsory quarantine had attempted to leave Hong Kong but were intercepted by the Immigration Department at boundary control points. The DH has immediately sent them to quarantine camp and launched an investigation with the Police. Following investigations, the DH has applied to the court to serve summons on two persons involved. For the remaining two persons, the DH and the Police will continue to gather more evidence for consideration in making prosecution by the Department of Justice.
 
        According to the Regulation, except for exempted persons, all persons having stayed in the Mainland for any period during the 14 days preceding arrival in Hong Kong, regardless of nationality and travel documents used, are subject to compulsory quarantine for 14 days. Contravening the compulsory quarantine requirement is a criminal offence. Offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $25,000 and imprisonment for six months.
 
        In response to media report today about two persons under compulsory quarantine staying at a subdivided flat and were suspected to have left their place of quarantine due to the lack of toilet in their accommodation, the DH has contacted the two persons and noted that their accommodation is a separate unit with en-suite toilet and bathroom, hence suitable for home quarantine. Nevertheless, one of the persons admitted to have gone out without permission for buying food. The DH has issued a warning letter and reminded the duo that they can call the Home Affairs Department’s hotline for assistance. The Social Welfare Department will also provide assistance as necessary.
 
         In general, Hong Kong residents will stay at home for quarantine. For non-Hong Kong residents who have arranged to stay at hotels or other dwelling places, they will conduct quarantine at the concerned hotels or dwelling places. If persons under compulsory quarantine are not able to arrange accommodation, they will conduct quarantine at quarantine camps under the Government’s arrangement.

Ends/Monday, February 17, 2020
Issued at HKT 22:38

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