2 Pinoys fined over stunning devices

A sample of a stunning device

TWO Filipino men were caught with stun guns in separate incidents at the Hong Kong International Airport.

Sources from the Philippine Consulate General told Hong Kong News, the first arrested person was R. Hernandez, 45.  He was arrested on June 5 at the HKIA and was found to be in possession of a stun gun.

The other person, a pastor, was arrested on June 18. Priscillo G. was also found with a stunning device.

PCG officials said the two Filipinos were fined by Hong Kong courts and were then deported to the Philippines.

Philippine authorities have repeatedly warned overseas Filipino workers against carrying stun guns, bullets, knives, and other objects or devices that can be viewed as ‘threatening’ when visiting or passing through Hong Kong.

Stun guns and other devices, such as tear gas, bullets, extendible batons, flick knives, and knuckle dusters, are considered as “arms” under the Firearms and Ammunition Ordinance of Hong Kong.

“Their unlicensed possession is, upon conviction, punishable by a fine of HK$100,000 and/or a maximum sentence of 14 years imprisonment,” the PCG report said.

“The Hong Kong authorities are particularly strict with the enforcement of said Ordinance. All hand-carried and checked luggage of passengers are subjected to security screening in the terminals,” the report added.

In February 2016, a news report said Hong Kong Police vowed strict enforcement of the law prohibiting unlicensed weapons, even those for personal protection, in the city.