DoJ responds to media enquiries
In response to media enquiries concerning a social media post circulating online that involves the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Department of Justice (DoJ) issued the following statement today (May 23):
The DoJ has noticed that serious allegations involving the newly appointed Director of Public Prosecutions and another DoJ officer have been widely circulating online. The DoJ had earlier conducted a rigorous investigation into an anonymous complaint containing relevant content in accordance with the established procedures, and is confident that the allegations are completely without factual basis, entirely fabricated, and constitute malicious smearing.
It is ill-intentioned for someone to maliciously spread rumours online following the appointment of the new Director of Public Prosecutions, and to deliberately smear dedicated prosecutors who perform duties in safeguarding national security.
The DoJ is highly concerned about and strongly condemns such despicable behaviour of spreading false allegations, which is intended to defame public officers, the Prosecutions Division of the DoJ, and even the reputation of the entire department. The public should not be misled by these unfounded allegations, or become a party to spread the rumors. The DoJ has referred the incident to the law enforcement agencies for further investigation and corresponding actions to severely punish lawbreakers in accordance with the law.
The DoJ reiterated that it always attaches great importance to the integrity and professional conduct of its officers. All DoJ personnel, regardless of their ranks or duties, perform their responsibilities with the highest standards of professional excellence and ethics. As always, the DoJ will continue to provide professional legal services to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in accordance with the law.
The Department of Justice (DoJ), Photo source: reference image
AFCD staff patrol animal release hotspots
With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past, including Wun Yiu, Tai Po; Ng Tung River, Sheung Shui; Sai Kung Public Pier and Sai Wan Ho Ferry Pier. Educational leaflets were distributed to remind the public to think carefully before participating in mercy releases of animals.
A spokesman for the AFCD said, "If members of the public release animals in an improper manner, such as releasing them into unsuitable habitats, it may adversely affect their survival."
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to animals by releasing them in an improper manner. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and imprisonment for three years upon conviction.
The AFCD will continue to conduct inspections at locations where animal release activities are likely to take place, take enforcement action when necessary, and carry out publicity and education work.
In addition, the AFCD will launch a restocking exercise on National Fish Releasing Day on June 6 to release juvenile fish with the aim of enhancing local marine resources and improving marine ecology. The department will promote the environmental benefits to the public of science-based restocking, with a view to engaging public support for and participation in these science-based restocking exercises in lieu of improper animal release activities. The public may also consider other charitable activities, such as planting trees or participating in volunteer services with animal welfare groups and environmental organisations.
With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past. Photo shows staff members of the AFCD distributing education materials at Ng Tung River, Sheung Shui. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past. Photo shows staff members of the AFCD distributing education materials at Sai Kung Public Pier. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
