Smoker sentenced for assaulting Tobacco Control Inspector
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     A 32-year-old man was sentenced to two months' imprisonment in the Sha Tin Magistrates' Courts today (August 13) upon conviction of assaulting a Tobacco Control Inspector (TCI).

     He was also fined $1,500 each for obstruction of public officers in the exercise of their duty and for the smoking offence.

     The incident took place in Chik Fu Street Rest Garden, Sha Tin, on June 7, 2012. The man assaulted a TCI when a team of inspectors was inspecting the premises. He was subsequently arrested and charged by the Police.

     A spokesman for the Department of Health urged the public to observe the smoking ban requirements and to co-operate with law enforcement officers.

     "Intimidation or use of violence on enforcement officers is a serious offence and carries serious legal consequences," the spokesman said.

Ends/Monday, August 13, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:03

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