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Families at a playgroup centre. Photo: SCMP Pictures

Another Hong Kong playgroup closes suddenly

At least 15 families affected by shutdown

At least 15 parents were left in the dark after they found a Sha Tin playgroup had closed without notifying them, the second sudden closure of a preschool centre in weeks.

Four parents affected by the closure of My Gym World Development Centre in Grand Central Plaza have contacted the police.

Some of them also took the case to the customs department and the Consumer Council. Customs confirmed it had received four complaints. A probe has been launched to investigate if the case involved unfair trade practices.

READ MORE: Police investigating sudden closure of Hong Kong playgroup chain

One parent told the media yesterday that there could be at least 15 parents affected, each of whom had paid between several hundred to several thousand dollars in advance tuition to the playgroup.

A notice posted at the playgroup’s venue said it had been facing operational difficulties and had failed to break even. It had also been troubled by a shortage of teachers, who had staged a strike this month.

The management apologised to the parents but did not address the tuition issue or leave a contact number or address.

Children having fun at a playgroup centre.

A parent said to media she had lost HK$1,200 to the institution, which charged HK$200 a lesson. She was surprised by its “silent” closure, calling it “a bit deceiving”.

The Labour Department said several workers from the institution had approached them for assistance over outstanding wages and other compensation. It was trying to reach the person in charge.

The department called on other workers in need to come forward.

A well-attended playgroup session. Photo: SCMP Pictures

This is the second sudden playgroup closure after the Bambini Republic chain shut down late last month. Two of the operators have since been arrested.

In the Bambini Republic case, police received a total of 92 complaints, with reported losses amounting to HK$3.74 million in investments and prepaid tuition.

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