3 mainland Chinese photographers arrested for allegedly working illegally in Hong Kong
- Suspects were apprehended after allegedly providing photography services to undercover officers on Wednesday and Thursday
Three mainland Chinese photographers have been arrested on suspicion of working illegally in Hong Kong and offering paid pre-wedding and street photo shoots to undercover immigration officers.
The Immigration Department said on Friday the man and two women were apprehended after they entered the city as visitors and allegedly provided photography services to the undercover officers on Wednesday and Thursday.
Deputy commander Leung Tsz-chung of the department’s task force also cautioned local residents against hiring these photographers.
“Employing individuals who are not legally authorised to work is a serious offence, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a HK$500,000 fine,” he warned.
The undercover operation was carried out after immigration officers noticed that mainland photographers were advertising cheap wedding and street photography services in the city on popular social media platforms to attract local customers.
“A preliminary investigation shows they charged between HK$1,000 (US$128) and HK$1,500 per assignment,” Leung said.
