Coronavirus Hong Kong: 5 arrested for using fake version of ‘Leave Home Safe’ app as mandatory rules kick in; government staff among those held
- From Monday, everyone seeking entry to public buildings including libraries, government offices, wet markets must record their visits with the official app
- Immigration and other government staff, contractors arrested on suspicion of using false documents by scanning QR code with illegal copy of the risk-exposure app
Two of the suspects were Immigration Department staff, one was employed by the Audit Commission, and the other two were contractors working on site. They were held on suspicion of using false documents, an offence that carries a maximum sentence of 14 years’ jail on conviction.
Officers were called to Immigration Tower on Gloucester Road shortly before 9.45am after four men and a woman were intercepted at the entrance of the department’s Wan Chai headquarters. As of 12.30pm, the five were being held for questioning and had not been charged.
Restaurants have previously reported instances of their workers being shown screenshots of the “Leave Home Safe” app as part of fraudulent attempts by members of the public to bypass Covid-19 rules. Imitations of the risk-exposure app can also be found online for download, including one named “Back Home Safe” which is designed to help users trick their way into venues.
Chief Secretary John Lee Ka-chiu said it was unacceptable for civil servants to try to avoid using the official app, adding they would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
“It is not right of some people to use certain methods to break the rules. If it involves civil servants committing a criminal offence, then it is even more unacceptable,” Lee said.
“I hope everyone can understand the measures we have taken are to reduce public health risks that could affect all of us.”