A mainland man and woman have been arrested by immigration authorities on suspicion of working as unlicensed tour guides, in breach of their conditions of stay.

In a statement, the Travel Industry Authority (TIA) said it conducted a joint operation with the Immigration Department on Monday and Tuesday, targeting unlicensed tour guides across Sai Kung's East Dam and Central.

The industry watchdog added that it would also press charges if the pair is found to have breached the Travel Industry Ordinance and related regulations.

With the National Day Golden Week holiday approaching, the TIA said it will step up joint inspections with other agencies to strictly enforce the Travel Industry Ordinance and protect the rights and interests of visitors.

The authority also warned that anyone providing tour guide services without a valid licence faces a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and up to one year in prison.



Edited by Raymond Yeung