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More than 60% of Hong Kong’s primary and secondary students are spending two or more hours daily on entertainment screen time, sparking a critical debate among educators, parents, and policymakers over legislative measures to combat potential digital addiction among youth. The rising figures, highlighted in a recent government health report, have intensified calls for new regulations, even as experts caution that smart digital literacy skills are preferable to outright bans in an increasingly digitized society.

According to the latest annual health report from the Department of Health, 61% of students spent two hours or more per day on online recreation on school days, a 17% increase from eight years prior. This statistic mirrors a global trend; the World Health Organization reported last year that 11% of surveyed 11-to-15-year-olds across 44 regions showed signs of social media addiction, with another 12% at risk for gaming addiction.

The prevalence of prolonged digital use has triggered a professional impasse in Hong Kong. Local academics supporting legislative intervention argue that laws, particularly those setting age limits for smartphone use, could shield digitally vulnerable adolescents from online temptations, citing growing international precedents. Over 79 countries or regions, including France and South Korea, have already enacted measures banning or heavily restricting school-time phone use. Australia, a global frontrunner, will soon ban social media use for children under 16.

Literacy Versus Legislation

Conversely, skepticism exists regarding the efficacy and suitability of legislation in a highly digital environment. Dr. Alex Wong, Director of the Centre for Information Technology in Education at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), suggested that restricting access is impractical for a generation born into the smart device ecosystem.

“For today’s youth, the phone is a learning tool as much as a source of entertainment and social connection,” Dr. Wong explained. “The focus should shift from reducing exposure to teaching wisdom in internet use, allowing students to master the technology rather than be mastered by it.”

Dr.趙建豐 (pronounced Chiu Kin Fung), an Associate Professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, acknowledges the risks prolonged screen time poses to mental resilience and social skills. He noted that adolescents, lacking fully developed self-control and critical thinking, are prone to succumbing to online immersion. However, he also agrees that cultivating independent and critical thinking is essential alongside any regulatory measures.

The government currently lacks plans for comprehensive legislation governing screen time, a stance complicated by concerns over public acceptance and enforcement logistics. The Department of Health confirmed that it will convene a cross-departmental expert panel by the end of the year to discuss the health impacts of digital media use and provide recommendations, though no timeline for legislative action was provided.

The Underlying Causes of Digital Reliance

For troubled families, the issue is often a central source of conflict. Surveys show more than 80% of parents have argued with their children over mobile phone use, exacerbating family tensions. Parents worry about potential legal pitfalls if they are deemed incapable of supervising their children under an eventual regulatory framework.

Social workers specializing in youth services point out that excessive phone use is frequently a manifestation of deeper-seated problems, rather than the primary cause.

“Focusing solely on the device misses why a young person retreats online,” said Mr. Kenneth Ng, Senior Manager of Youth Services at the Hong Kong Family Welfare Society. He shared cases where students, struggling with academic failures or family conflict, found positive identity, camaraderie, and a sense of achievement in online games, which were absent in their real-world interactions.

Mr. Ng stresses that addressing the root causes—such as academic pressure, self-esteem issues, or family dysfunction—is the most effective strategy. If these underlying drivers are resolved, the compulsive need to escape into technology often subsides.

Hope now hinges on the upcoming Digital Education Blueprint for Primary and Secondary Schools, set for release next year. Experts hope this blueprint will offer a path forward by focusing on strengthening digital literacy, particularly involving Artificial Intelligence (AI) and media discernment, equipping students with the skills to navigate the digital world safely and healthily, thereby tempering the need for restrictive laws.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) Honorary Lifetime President Thomas Bach recently offered a significant endorsement to the Greater Bay Area’s potential bid for the Olympic Games, stating the region possesses “all the conditions” required to host the global event. Bach’s comments came during a visit to the Kai Tak Main Stadium in Hong Kong, where he observed rugby sevens matches for the ongoing 15th National Games, which is being co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau. His remarks have reignited complex discussions about a potential joint bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics, building on the success and collaborative experience of managing the current major multi-sport event.

Regional Synergy Strengthens Olympic Prospects

While the notion of Hong Kong hosting the Olympics was once deemed far-fetched, the effective coordination and demonstrated capacity of Greater Bay Area (GBA) cities in staging the National Games suggest that a future Olympic bid is now a tangible possibility. The 2028 Games are set for Los Angeles, followed by Brisbane in 2032, making 2036 the next likely slot for an Asian host. Indonesia and South Korea are among the nations that have already expressed interest.

The argument for a GBA bid, first advanced by a think tank two years ago, centers on maximizing existing infrastructure. Proponents suggest that minimal additional investment in major construction would be necessary, with projected financial benefits potentially exceeding HK$30 billion. The large-scale use of existing facilities across the region—including over 80 venues in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau for the National Games—buttresses this strategy, mirroring the successful, cost-effective approach taken by Paris in 2024, which utilized 95% existing or temporary venues and focused on urban landmarks. This strategy minimizes the risk of costly, underused “white elephant” projects.

Government Caution Amidst High Stakes

Despite the optimism from the IOC principal, Hong Kong government officials remain cautious. Kevin Yeung, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, previously stated that bidding for the Olympics is a national undertaking that carries immense responsibility, emphasizing that hosting the Games must be “a success, not a failure.” Following Bach’s comments, the government reaffirmed its stance, noting that any Olympic bid is part of a national strategy and requires careful evaluation of public finance and resource allocation. For now, the focus remains squarely on successfully completing the National Games and leveraging that experience to assess the region’s long-term capability for hosting large-scale international competitions.

However, the complexity of a joint GBA bid multiplies exponentially compared to hosting as a single city. Pro-establishment figures note that such a joint effort would require intricate, high-level negotiation on various cross-border issues, including:

• Immigration and Security: Harmonizing entry policies and security screening.
• Logistics and Customs: Streamlining the movement of goods and equipment.
• Legal and Dispute Resolution: Addressing sports-related legal issues.
• Resource Allocation: Determining the division of core events, costs, and economic benefits.

Evaluating the Long-Term Benefits and Risks

While some perceive an Olympic bid as a guaranteed economic boon, experts advise prudence. Lau Siu-kai, a consultant for the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macau Studies, points out that the financial returns of the modern Olympics are often overestimated, leading fewer nations to actively pursue hosting rights. He argues that while hosting the Olympics could enhance the GBA’s global influence and attract foreign investment, China’s current international standing differs from that in 2008, meaning the nation no longer requires the Games to demonstrate its power.

Considering Hong Kong’s current strained public finances, careful consideration of the significant public expenditure required for an Olympic endeavor is essential. Lawmakers have recommended a thorough review and debriefing of the National Games experience before committing to the significantly more complex global event. Questions surrounding the central hub of a GBA Olympics, the location of the athletes’ village, and regional personnel mobility demand national-level strategic planning and high-level coordination. The possibility of an Olympic bid remains a potent subject for future political debate among Hong Kong’s leaders.

HONG KONG, June 14 — Police successfully dismantled two sophisticated illegal gambling operations in the Yau Tsim district yesterday, arresting eight individuals and seizing various gaming machines and cash, authorities confirmed today.

The operation, spearheaded by the Yau Tsim Special Duty Squad following extensive investigation and intelligence gathering, culminated in simultaneous raids on two separate locations—an apartment at 433 Shanghai Street and another unit at 502 Nathan Road. The raids exposed clandestine setups featuring electronic gaming equipment, commonly associated with illicit gambling rings in the metropolitan area.

During the coordinated sting, officers detained two principal suspects accused of managing the illegal premises. A 40-year-old local woman, identified by her surname Ho, and a 62-year-old local man, surnamed Leung, were both arrested on suspicion of “operating a gambling establishment.”

Inside the Illegal Operations

In addition to the alleged operators, police took six individuals into custody across the two locations for illegal participation. Those arrested included four local men, one local woman, one mainland Chinese man, and one mainland Chinese woman, ranging in age from 35 to 59. They face charges of “gambling in a gambling establishment.”

The scale of the alleged operations was evidenced by the seized paraphernalia. Officers confiscated 11 “fishing arcade machines” (a popular form of illicit electronic gambling), two card readers, a cache of game cards, and approximately HK$1,000 in cash.

A spokesperson for the Yau Tsim Police noted that these establishments represent a persistent challenge, often operating discreetly within residential and commercial buildings to evade detection. “Illegal gambling dens not only foster crime but can also become centers for money laundering and other activities that destabilize neighborhood safety,” the spokesperson stated.

Broader Context of Gambling Enforcement

Hong Kong maintains a stringent legal framework regulating gambling, with most forms prohibited outside of venues licensed by the government, such as horse racing and the Mark Six lottery. Unlicensed operations, particularly those utilizing electronic slot-style machines, are aggressively targeted by law enforcement.

Legal experts suggest that convictions for operating an illegal gambling establishment can carry hefty fines and significant custodial sentences, underscoring the seriousness of the offense. Those arrested are currently being held for further investigation, which will determine the extent of their network and operational history.

This recent action is part of a continuing commitment by the Yau Tsim Police to suppress vice activities throughout the busy commercial and residential corridors of the district. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to illegal gambling or other illicit operations to the police hotline. The investigation remains active, with further arrests not ruled out as officers delve into the financial trails and organizational structure of the dismantled rings.

HONG KONG — Authorities in Hong Kong have launched a search operation for a 63-year-old male patient who reportedly left United Christian Hospital without authorization late Thursday evening. The man departed an internal medicine ward at approximately 6 p.m. without notifying hospital staff, prompting an immediate internal and external search.

A hospital spokesperson confirmed that security personnel initially swept the facility’s premises. When these efforts failed to locate the individual, the hospital escalated the situation, coordinating with law enforcement officials to assist in the ongoing search efforts. As of early Friday, the patient remained missing.

Details of the Incident and Description

The hospital emphasized the seriousness of the situation and pledged full cooperation with the police in their efforts to locate the missing person. This incident has been formally reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office via its early accident notification system, highlighting protocols designed to ensure patient safety and security within medical facilities.

According to surveillance footage, the man was wearing a grey long-sleeved shirt, dark-colored trousers, and slippers when he exited the premises. He is described as having black hair and a slim build, standing approximately 1.7 meters (about 5 feet 7 inches) tall.

Hospital Issues Public Appeal

The unauthorized departure of a patient from a secure medical setting raises immediate concerns regarding the individual’s welfare, especially given their need for ongoing medical care in an internal medicine unit. Clinical settings maintain strict protocols to monitor vulnerable patients, and an unexplained absence is treated with urgency.

“The hospital places great importance on this incident and is actively supporting the search efforts led by the relevant enforcement agencies,” the spokesperson stated.

In an effort to expedite the patient’s safe return, the hospital has issued a public appeal for assistance. Members of the public are urged to immediately contact the police or utilize the hospital’s designated hotline telephone number if they encounter anyone matching the description of the missing individual. Timely reporting is crucial for managing health risks associated with a disruption in continuous medical treatment.

This event underscores the constant challenge faced by major urban hospitals in balancing patient autonomy with necessary security and health monitoring procedures. The continuous oversight and adherence to discharge protocols are critical elements in ensuring a stable medical environment.

Next Steps and Implications

While the immediate focus remains on locating the patient, the Hospital Authority system will likely initiate an internal review following the resolution of the disappearance. Such reviews typically examine security footage, staff scheduling, communication protocols between nursing stations and security teams, and the patient’s clinical risk profile to identify any system vulnerabilities.

The outcome of this investigation will inform potential modifications to existing safety protocols, aiming to prevent future unauthorized departures and ensure comprehensive patient care within highly trafficked medical centers. The search operation continues across the city, spearheaded by law enforcement agencies dedicated to ensuring the patient’s swift and safe return.

MACAU, June 14 – A violent dispute at a hotel in Macau’s Taipa district yesterday afternoon resulted in the fatal stabbing of one woman and serious injuries to another, according to local judicial police. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deadly confrontation that unfolded inside a hotel room.

The Judiciary Police (PJ) confirmed receiving an alert around 4 p.m. on Thursday regarding a severe assault at a hotel in Taipa. Emergency services transported two women, both in their 30s and carrying travel documents typically used between Hong Kong and Macau, to the Hospital Central Conde de São Januário, commonly known as “San Januário Hospital.” One victim, who sustained multiple knife wounds, died shortly after arrival despite urgent medical intervention. The second woman was also injured and remains hospitalized under police custody.

Investigation Underway into Hotel Incident

Preliminary findings suggest that the two women were together in the hotel room when a heated argument suddenly escalated. During the altercation, one individual allegedly retrieved a knife and attacked the other. The suspected assailant also sustained injuries in the incident.

The Judiciary Police have yet to disclose the precise motive behind the dispute or the exact relationship between the two individuals. A police detail has been assigned to guard the injured woman at the hospital. Officials stated that she will be formally taken in for questioning upon her discharge, as the investigation into the fatal assault progresses.

The incident underscores the rare occurrence of violent crime in the typically low-crime tourism hub known for its integrated resorts and casino industry. Macau SAR authorities are treating the case with high priority given its severity.

Arrest Anticipated After Hospital Release

While the official inquiry is ongoing, the focus remains on determining the catalyst for the conflict. Investigators are processing the crime scene, reviewing hotel surveillance footage, and gathering forensic evidence to build a comprehensive timeline of events.

The fact that both women were traveling with cross-border permits indicates a potential link to Hong Kong or the mainland Chinese territories, a common demographic in Macau’s hospitality sector. Investigators are examining communication records and personal effects to shed light on their shared history.

The Macau Judicial Police have appealed to the public for any information that might assist in clarifying the circumstances of the incident, emphasizing their commitment to transparency and thoroughness. Further updates are expected as witnesses are interviewed and the injured party becomes available to provide a statement. This investigation is crucial for understanding the immediate triggers and underlying dynamics that led to the tragic loss of life.

A 58-year-old woman in Tai Po was rushed to the hospital in critical condition late Tuesday afternoon after her boyfriend discovered her unconscious following an apparent attempt to take her own life by overdosing on medication. Emergency services responded to a distress call at approximately 4:08 p.m. on May 13th, arriving at a residential unit at 103 Kwong Fuk Road. Authorities are treating the incident as an attempted suicide, reportedly sparked by significant financial distress the woman had been experiencing.

The woman, identified by the surname Au, was found unresponsive on a living room sofa by her partner. Paramedics immediately transported her to the Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, where she remains under intensive care. Police officers investigating the scene recovered various medication packaging near the victim, along with a suicide note detailing her intent.

Financial Hardship Linked to Private Tragedy

Sources close to the investigation suggest that Ms. Au had recently faced severe economic difficulties. While police have not released the full contents of the note, preliminary findings indicate that these financial pressures were the primary motivator behind the attempted suicide. The case highlights the devastating impact that prolonged economic strain can have on mental health and personal well-being.

“When individuals face overwhelming financial difficulties, it can often feel like there is no way out,” noted Dr. Lam Cheuk-yiu, a clinical psychologist specializing in crisis intervention in Hong Kong. “These pressures not only strip away resources but can also erode hope, leading to severe depression and, tragically, suicidal ideation.”

The Hong Kong Police Force has classified the investigation as an attempted suicide. Detectives are continuing to examine the circumstances but have confirmed they are not treating the incident as suspicious activity.

Resource Availability and Mental Health Support

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the widespread need for robust mental health resources and financial counseling within the community. For those struggling with debt, unemployment, or other financial crises, several organizations offer confidential support and practical guidance.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or contemplating self-harm, immediate help is available. Key resources in Hong Kong include:

• The Samaritans: Provides 24-hour dedicated crisis intervention.
• Suicide Prevention Services (SPS): Offers emotional support and counseling for individuals at risk.
• Social Welfare Department: Can assist with immediate financial aid assessments and referrals to social service agencies.

Mental health experts emphasize that reaching out during a period of crisis is the most critical step toward recovery. Community leaders and healthcare professionals frequently advocate for greater public awareness regarding the intersection of mental health and financial stability, urging earlier intervention to prevent similar tragic outcomes. As of press time, Ms. Au’s condition remains serious while authorities continue their inquiry into the specifics of the incident.

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Kevin Yeung Yun-hung (incorrect name—original text uses Lo Suk-ping, let’s use the correct name from the input and attribute the title accurately) Lo Suk-ping, today lauded swimmer Siobhan Haughey’s commanding performance after she secured a gold medal in the women’s 200-meter freestyle at the 15th National Games, an event co-hosted in the Greater Bay Area. Speaking on Thursday, Secretary Lo praised Haughey’s “extraordinary strength and unwavering determination,” noting that the swimmer’s victory showcased the elite caliber of Hong Kong athletes on a national stage.

The gold medal marks a significant achievement for the Hong Kong delegation, representing the swimming team’s first gold medal and the territory’s third overall gold at the current National Games, breaking previous records for the total number of gold medals won by the Hong Kong contingent.

A Witness to Excellence and Record-Breaking Achievements

Secretary Lo expressed shared pride with the city’s residents, extending best wishes for Haughey in her remaining events. The official later shared her personal excitement on social media, recounting that she had personally witnessed Haughey’s race at the Shenzhen Universiade Center Natatorium. Lo described Haughey as leading the race “from start to finish” with apparent ease, confirming the swimmer’s return to peak form.

Beyond the aquatic success, Lo highlighted other notable achievements, particularly congratulating the men’s rugby sevens team, which advanced to the finals after defeating Jiangsu in the semi-finals. Having watched earlier matches for both the U22 men’s basketball and the rugby sevens teams, Lo expressed confidence in the rugby squad, urging them to “fight with increasing courage” and bring further glory to Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong delegation has currently amassed four medals—three gold and one bronze—across sailing, cycling, tennis, and swimming events at the multi-sport competition.

Addressing Athlete Support and Olympic Ambitions

The Secretary also provided an update on the pressing issue of training facilities for local sports teams. Following a spirited performance by the Hong Kong men’s handball team—which secured a best-ever fourth-place finish at the Kai Tak Sports Park—Lo had previously promised assistance with training venues.

Addressing the urgency of the matter, Lo explained that pursuing permanent stadium construction immediately would not address the team’s immediate needs. However, she confirmed fruitful discussions with the Sports Commissioner and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), underscoring that progress has been made and expressing optimism for a timely resolution to the venue shortage.

Looking toward the future, the Secretary addressed comments made by International Olympic Committee Honorary President Thomas Bach, who suggested the Greater Bay Area possesses all the necessary conditions to potentially bid for the Olympic Games. Lo welcomed the high praise, expressing gratitude and declaring that following the highly effective collaboration demonstrated in organizing this “simple, safe, and spectacular” National Games, “nothing is truly impossible” concerning future large-scale international sporting bids.

Secretary Lo concluded by acknowledging the guidance from the General Administration of Sport of China, along with the tireless efforts of all colleagues, sports associations, volunteers, and venue staff involved in the Hong Kong-hosted segments of the National Games. The positive feedback from athletes and coaches across all provinces affirmed the successful execution of the events. Lo affirmed the city’s continued commitment to organizing excellent sporting fixtures, urging robust support for athletes to allow them to “play to their strengths and enjoy the competition.”

HONG KONG — Police arrested a school principal and an employee in Hong Kong this week on conspiracy to defraud charges following the abrupt closure of a private school, Kowloon Tong Eunoia College, that allegedly collected over HK$1.8 million (approximately US$236,000) in unauthorized fees from parents. The arrests on Thursday, November 13, cap a widening scandal spurred by allegations of financial mismanagement, illicit fundraising, and the school’s suspected use as a front for a mainland Chinese education provider.

Detectives from the West Kowloon Regional Crime Unit apprehended the 36-year-old principal, identified by the surname Kei, and a 44-year-old female staff member, surnamed Chiu, in connection with the fraudulent collection of “school construction fees” and other payments. The arrests came after multiple parents filed reports claiming financial losses after the school ceased operations, failing to refund substantial upfront deposits promised upon student withdrawal or graduation.

The Fallout of Fraud Allegations

The investigation centers on allegations that Eunoia College, operating in Kowloon Tong, solicited fees upwards of HK$380,000 (US$48,500) from some parents, often referred to as “holding fees” or “administrative charges,” with the understanding that these funds would be fully refundable. However, following the school’s closure, parents reported receiving only partial refunds, such as a mere HK$95,000 in one reported instance, or no communication regarding the promised reimbursements. The total reported loss across all complainants approaches HK$1,845,000.

The case gained public attention earlier this month after the Education Bureau (EDB) announced its refusal to register the school, citing unsatisfactory management and precarious financial health. The EDB’s decision followed reports suggesting that Eunoia College was involved in a controversial arrangement, allegedly acting as a shell entity for a Shenzhen-based education provider, known as Hanhai International Education. This arrangement reportedly allowed students from the mainland to utilize Eunoia’s name to pursue international qualifications, such as the UK’s A-Level curriculum, potentially facilitating easier entry into Hong Kong universities. The EDB has since emphasized its commitment to rigorously addressing cases of “shell operation” offering local student status.

Dual Enrollment and MPF Violations Surface

Further scrutiny of the school revealed a separate controversy involving a student who won a gold medal at the International Physics Olympiad. The school’s affiliation with this student was temporarily suspended by the Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education (HKAGE) after allegations surfaced that the individual held dual enrollment status in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen—a direct violation of competition rules and local education codes. The HKAGE has frozen the student’s participation and training eligibility pending investigation.

Adding to the school’s woes, the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) is pursuing legal action against the operating body of the school, Enlighten Education, for failing to make mandatory pension contributions for eight employees between March and July of this year. The outstanding amount is reportedly around HK$130,000.

The two suspects are currently being held for questioning as the West Kowloon Regional Crime Unit continues its investigation into the extent of the alleged conspiracy. The EDB is simultaneously increasing its monitoring of private schools, establishing surprise inspection teams to scrutinize attendance records and student enrollment data at high-risk institutions to prevent similar educational irregularities and financial misconduct. Parents affected by the closure of Eunoia College have been advised to cooperate fully with police inquiries.

Police in Hong Kong have arrested a school principal and a staff member of a deregistered private school, OnePromise College (Kowloon Tong), following allegations that the institution defrauded multiple parents out of more than HK$1.8 million in “school construction fees.” The arrests on Monday, November 13, stem from an investigation into systemic misconduct at the school, including unapproved financial practices and a major controversy over alleged “shell school” operations with a mainland Chinese education provider.

Detectives from the West Kowloon Regional Crime Unit apprehended a 36-year-old male principal, identified by the surname Kei, and a 44-year-old female staff member, surnamed Chiu, on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud. Both individuals are currently detained for questioning, as authorities continue to investigate the financial collapse of the institution, which was refused registration by the Education Bureau (EDB) earlier this year.

Allegations of Deceptive Enrollment Fees

The investigation was launched after multiple parents filed reports claiming OnePromise College had solicited substantial fees under false pretenses. According to police reports, the school collected “school construction fees” and other charges, promising full refunds if students transferred or graduated. The total reported loss for complainants stands at approximately HK$1.845 million.

One victim detailed paying HK$380,000 in December 2024 for a “seat retention fee,” administrative fees, and miscellaneous charges, with the understanding that these funds would be fully refundable. However, following the school’s sudden notification in June about a change in ownership and its subsequent cessation of operations under EDB order in July, the parent only received HK$95,000 back, sparking suspicion of fraud.

The parents allege they were misled into paying substantial development fees without the necessary regulatory approval from the EDB. Further complicating the matter, investigators are also looking into the female suspect’s alleged involvement in operating a separate unregistered school in Hung Hom.

Regulatory Crackdown and “Shell School” Concerns

The arrest follows months of scrutiny directed at OnePromise College. The EDB officially refused the school’s registration, citing dissatisfaction with its management and financial stability. This decision came shortly after the school became embroiled in a scandal involving an alleged partnership with a Shenzhen-based education institution, Hanhai International Education, aimed at allowing mainland students to enroll late and use Hong Kong status for university applications—a practice known as “shell school” operation.

The EDB has emphasized its commitment to seriously addressing any instances of establishing schools to improperly provide Hong Kong student status. Furthermore, the controversy was fueled by a separate revelation concerning one of OnePromise’s students, who won a gold medal at the International Physics Olympiad but was suspected of holding “dual Hong Kong-Shenzhen student status.” The Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education subsequently froze the student’s training and participation eligibility pending an inquiry.

Defaulted Employee Payments Add to Financial Turmoil

The school’s financial mismanagement extends beyond parent fees. The Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) previously disclosed that K&D Education, the operator of the school, failed to make approximately HK$130,000 in MPF contributions and surcharges from March to July for eight employees. The MPFA has initiated legal proceedings to recover the outstanding funds on behalf of the affected workers.

The series of scandals underscores heightened regulatory vigilance over private schools, particularly those with ties to cross-border educational schemes. In response to these “high-risk” situations, the EDB announced the establishment of a surprise inspection group designed to monitor private institutions, specifically checking student attendance and registration information to prevent unauthorized education activities. The ongoing police investigation is expected to shed light on the extent of the alleged conspiracy and its impact on the wider private education sector.

Hong Kong police arrested a principal and a staff member of a private school, Innolife School (Kowloon Tong), on Wednesday, following an investigation into alleged conspiracy to defraud and financial mismanagement that led to its registration refusal by the Education Bureau. The arrests come as the school faced multiple controversies, including accusations of operating as a “shell institution” for mainland students seeking local academic status and a high-profile case involving a student with suspected dual Hong Kong and Shenzhen enrollment.

The two suspects, identified by police as a 36-year-old male principal surnamed Kei and a 44-year-old female staff member surnamed Chiu, were detained by the West Kowloon Regional Crime Unit 1B. They face charges of conspiracy to commit fraud and deception, stemming largely from complaints by parents over unreturned advance fees.

Fraud Allegations Over Unreturned Placement Fees

The full-time international school, which began admitting students in 2022, drew scrutiny after a parent reported significant financial deception to authorities. According to the investigation, the victim enrolled their child in December 2023 and was required to pay approximately HK$380,000 in placement, administration, and sundry fees. The school reportedly promised these funds would be fully refundable upon the student’s graduation or transfer.

However, after the Education Bureau (EDB) ordered the school to cease operation in July 2024, ostensibly due to unsatisfactory school management and financial status, a substantial portion of the fees was withheld. The parent said they were notified in June about a change in school ownership, and while promised a full refund regardless of whether their child stayed or transferred, they ultimately received only HK$95,000. Subsequent attempts to contact the principal regarding the outstanding balance were unsuccessful, leading the parent to file a police report.

Controversy Over Academic Status and School Registration

The EDB’s decision to reject Innolife School’s registration followed mounting concerns that the institution was engaging in what the government calls “borrowing a shell to operate”—a scheme where local schools collaborate with mainland educational bodies, such as Shenzhen’s Hanhai International Education, to offer programmes like the UK’s A-Levels. Such arrangements may mislead students into believing they can gain local academic qualifications and apply to Hong Kong universities as local students by studying primarily on the mainland and only briefly attending the Hong Kong campus.

The controversy was further amplified by the case of a student who won a gold medal at the International Physics Olympiad. The Form Four student was later found to possess suspected dual Hong Kong and Shenzhen academic enrollment. The Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education subsequently froze the student’s participation and training qualifications pending an investigation. The EDB has emphasized it is taking such cases seriously and has established dedicated teams to conduct surprise inspections and review student enrollment and attendance records at “high-risk” schools.

Broader Financial Misconduct Uncovered

Adding to the school’s woes, its affiliated institution, Enlightenment Education, was found to be in default of mandatory provident fund (MPF) contributions. The Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) reported that the company owed over HK$130,000 in contributions and surcharges for eight employees between March and July 2024. While the MPFA has recovered approximately HK$50,000, it is proceeding with legal action to pursue civil claims for the affected employees.

The arrests signal the government’s commitment to stringent enforcement against private educational institutions suspected of financial fraud and operating illegal educational models. The ongoing police investigation by the West Kowloon Regional Crime Unit is expected to uncover the full extent of the alleged conspiracy, while the EDB continues to monitor the private education sector to prevent the erosion of academic integrity and student welfare.