Seven drivers arrested for overcharging taxi fare

Police arrested seven taxi drivers on suspicion of fare overcharging. In an operation last week, police disguised as passengers in Sai Kung to catch drivers who were suspected of fare overcharging.

The police said the arrested drivers were six men and one woman, aged between 40 and 71.

Speaking to the media on Sunday, authorities said they had prepared the operation for a long time because the suspects were cautious.

Officers said the drivers had asked for 200 dollars for a trip that would have usually cost 60.

Apart from overcharging, the drivers were also caught for not displaying taxi licences and taxi meters. The seven taxis have been detained for investigation.

Authorities said such behaviours damaged Hong Kong's reputation as an international tourism city, and that the force would strengthen enforcement actions against illegal taxis over the Lunar New Year holiday.

The police said passengers could report suspected illegal taxi behaviour cases by providing authorities with information on drivers and their trips.

Under the law, offenders could face a fine of 10,000 dollars and six months in prison for overcharging.