PH Consulate General in Hong Kong Advices Filipino Travelers to Avoid Bringing Prohibited Weapons

SINGAPORE 13 August 2018 — The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong reminds Filipinos transiting or entering Hong Kong as visitors, workers or as residents to refrain from bringing restricted items, particularly stunning devices, in their hand-carried or checked-in luggage.

Stun guns, pepper spray, and other devices such as tear gas, bullets, extendible batons, flick knives and knuckledusters are considered “arms”, and are therefore restricted under Firearms and Ammunition Ordinance of Hong Kong.

Upon conviction, the unlicensed possession of these restricted items is punishable by a fine of HK$100,000 (US$12,739 or PHP676,249.82), and maximum sentence of five-year imprisonment.

A total of 30 Filipinos, mostly transiting via Hong Kong International Airport, have been convicted in 2017 for possession of arms without license.

Hong Kong authorities are strict with the enforcement of the said ordinance. All hand-carried and checked-in luggage of passengers are subjected to security screening in the airport terminals. END