Lorry drivers and porters convicted for repeated illegal disposal of commercial and industrial waste
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A spokesman for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said that a member of the public provided video recordings to the EPD in June this year indicating that some people had repeatedly disposed of waste tyres illegally at Kam Tin Road in Yuen Long in April and May. Based on the information provided by the member of the public, the EPD tracked down the lorry drivers and truck porters concerned and subsequently initiated prosecution against them according to the WDO.
The spokesman urged the public to report to the EPD when witnessing illegal dumping of waste. EPD enforcement staff will conduct an investigation according to the information provided and carry out prosecution should there be sufficient evidence.
Under the WDO, a person commits an offence if he or she disposes of waste in public places or on government land or without the permission of land owners. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. A maximum fine of $500,000 and six months' imprisonment may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions. In addition, a daily fine of $10,000 may be imposed for a continuing offence.
The spokesman also reminded practitioners of the logistics and transportation sectors to take all proper measures and exercise due diligence to dispose of waste, including C&I waste and construction waste, in accordance with the law. They may arrange for recyclers to collect materials with reusable or recycling value but should not dispose of waste illegally or they will be prosecuted.
Ends/Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Issued at HKT 15:00
Issued at HKT 15:00
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