Officers from the Traffic Enforcement and Control Section of the East Kowloon Regional Traffic Department conducted an operation this morning (Aug. 25) to combat illegal activities involving unlicensed vehicles operating for hire or reward, commonly known as "white-plate" cars. During the operation, officers posed as passengers and successfully intercepted two private cars suspected of being used for illegal hire or reward in Tseung Kwan O and Ngau Tau Kok, and will issue summonses to two local male drivers.
The two male drivers, aged 30 and 56, are both suspected of "using a vehicle for illegal hire or reward." They will be summoned for the above offences. The two private cars involved have also been impounded for further inspection.
Police stated that under the Road Traffic Ordinance, unless a valid hire car permit is issued, no person shall drive or use a vehicle for hire or reward. A first conviction carries a fine of HK$10,000 and up to six months' imprisonment, while a subsequent conviction carries a fine of HK$25,000 and up to 12 months' imprisonment.
Police appeal to the public to choose legal public transport when travelling. If a vehicle is used for illegal hire or reward, the third-party risk insurance for that vehicle may become invalid. In the event of an accident, other road users including passengers and pedestrians would lose their entitled protection.
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