Press Release

Smoker sentenced for assaulting tobacco control inspector

26 Mar 2012

A 48-year-old man was sentenced to two months' imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, in the Kwun Tong Magistrates' Court today (March 26) upon conviction of assaulting a Tobacco Control Inspector (TCI).

He was also fined $1,000 each for obstruction of TCIs in the exercise of their duty and for the smoking offence.

The incident took place in Kai Tin Shopping Centre, Lam Tin on January 28, 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 cooperate with law enforcement officers.

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