A man who admitted to trying to lure girls into prostitution was on Thursday sentenced to 22 months in jail.

Gas station worker Sum Tin-wai earlier admitted that he tried to persuade two girls, both 12, and a policewoman who pretended to be an underage girl to be sex workers in March 2022. He said he would arrange work for them and charge a commission.

Passing sentence, Deputy District Judge Li Chi-ho quoted the psychologist's report as saying that Sum refused treatment and there was a high chance he would be a repeat offender.

Li added it was an aggravating factor that the defendant targeted girls who might be easily deceived or used.

The judge said it was fortunate that Sum was arrested before he succeeded in his attempts.