Police noticed that some netizens are calling for participation in a public event this evening (April 26) around Cityplaza in Quarry Bay.

     According to Prevention and Control of Disease (Prohibition on Group Gathering) Regulation (Cap 599G), from March 29 to May 7, group gathering of more than four persons is prohibited in any public place.

     Rumours suggest that there is no violation of the regulation under Cap.599G as long as a person participates in a public event in a group of no more than four persons and such group distances itself 1.5m from other persons participating in the same event. Police sternly clarify that as long as the persons gather for a common purpose in public place, it is irrelevant whether the participants have kept a distance of 1.5m from each other or between each small group of four; such public event consisting of more than four persons is still a prohibited group gathering and all the participants will commit the offence under Cap.599G.

     Police emphasise that during this period, any group gathering may increase the risk of spreading the virus. Members of the public are advised not to participate in any prohibited group gathering. Police have zero tolerance against any violation and will take strict enforcement action. Police may issue fixed penalty tickets to fine offenders $2000.

Ends/Sunday, April 26, 2020
Issued at HKT 19:41

NNNN