Kidnapped HK residents shall return safely: Lai Tung-kwok

The Southeast Asian fraud group has resurged, with 12 Hong Kong residents currently in the area, with their freedom restricted. Under Secretary for Security Michael Cheuk led a team to Thailand yesterday (Jan. 12) to follow up on the situation. Former Secretary for Security and Legislative Council member Lai Tung-kwok expressed a positive attitude towards the rescue operation today (Jan. 13) on a radio program, believing that with the attention of various stakeholders, the 12 individuals can return safely.

Lai pointed out that in the past, assistance missions abroad were mostly led by the Immigration Department, and the fact that the Under Secretary for Security is leading the team this time shows the government's high level of concern. Additionally, the recent incident involving Mainland actor Wang Xing has severely impacted Thailand's tourism industry, prompting significant attention from the Thai authorities.

He is confident that with the attention of various stakeholders, there will be positive outcomes, and he believes that the 12 individuals will return safely.

Lai mentioned that such cases have occurred intermittently, and when public awareness weakens over time, it is easier for such incidents to resurface.

"The recent Wang Xing incident has led to an enhanced perception of Thailand's handling capabilities, prompting the authorities to take further action."

He also said that many Hong Kong residents travel to Thailand, and among the cases received by the government, no one has been kidnapped while traveling; the scams occurred while they were in Hong Kong. He urged the authorities to disseminate information vigorously on social platforms to raise public awareness.

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