Travelers from the Philippines are being advised not to bring restricted items into Hong Kong after a Filipino student was reportedly caught carrying prohibited weapons in his luggage.
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said a Filipino student, who was bound for Canada, was arrested on January 8 in Hong Kong International Airport after airport authorities found two extendable batons in his check-in luggage.
The student was only allowed to leave Hong Kong on Friday after receiving legal representation and assistance from the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong.
Consul General Antonio Morales said personal defense weapons such as stun guns, pepper spray, tear gas, extendable batons, flick knives and knuckledusters are considered to be dangerous weapons in Hong Kong.
In Hong Kong, unlicensed possession of such items is punishable by a fine of HK$100,000 (US$12,748) and a maximum jail term of five years upon conviction.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs reminds Filipinos traveling to or transitioning through Hong Kong to make sure they are not carrying restricted items in their luggage,” the DFA said.