Hong Kong official fired, faces criminal probe following online ‘perks’ posts
Ricky Cheng’s trip to Macau suspected of breaching provisions under Prevention of Bribery Ordinance regarding civil servants, government says
The head of the Hong Kong government’s liaison office in Tianjin has been fired and will face a criminal probe after his online posts showed him enjoying alleged perks such as a private ferry cabin upgrade on a trip to Macau.
The government said in a late-night statement on Wednesday that following concerns arising from posts by Ricky Cheng Chun-sang, director of the Tianjin Liaison Unit, it had conducted further investigations.
“It has been considered that the incident in which Mr Cheng’s seat was upgraded on a vessel during his earlier trip to Macau is suspected of breaching the provisions under the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance regarding civil servants accepting advantages without permission,” the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau said.
The case had been referred to law enforcement authorities for follow-up action, it added.
“Mr Cheng is a contract staff [member] of the bureau. It has decided to terminate his contract with immediate effect,” it said.
Hong Kong official sacked, under investigation after online ‘perks’ post
Cheng had earlier shared photos and selfies on the social media platform Threads that allegedly showcased offers.