“Don’t bring stunning devices to HK” OFWs warned

MANILA, August 11 (PIA) – The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong warned all Filipino travelers entering Hong Kong as visitor, worker, or as resident to refrain from bringing stunning devices and other restricted items in their hand-carried or checked-in luggage.

In an advisory, the Philippine Consulate said that stun guns and other devices such as tear gas, bullets, extendible batons, flick knives and knuckle dusters are considered as “arms” and are restricted under the Firearms and Ammunition Ordinance of Hong Kong.

The advisory also states that Hong Kong authorities are strict with the enforcement of said Ordinance. And all hand-carried and checked in luggage of passengers are subjected to security screening in the airport terminals.

It added that upon conviction, the unlicensed possession of said restricted items is punishable by a fine of HK$100,000 and a maximum sentence of 14 years imprisonment.

According to the Philippine Consulate General, from January to June 2015, there are 34 Filipinos, mostly seafarers, were convicted for possession of arms without license. (PHL CONSULATE HK SAR/JEG/PIA-NCR)