19th December 2024 – (Hong Kong) Authorities in Hong Kong have intensified their crackdown on prostitution in the Yau Tsim Mong district, conducting a series of operations that culminated in a dramatic raid at the James S. Lee Mansion on Carnarvon Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Officers forcibly entered the premises after occupants failed to respond to warnings to open the door.
Footage circulating online shows three police officers arriving at the scene, shouting, “Police! Open the door! Otherwise, we will break it down!” After receiving no response, they proceeded to use breaching tools to gain entry.
Investigations revealed that many of the units within the nine-storey building were allegedly being used for illegal activities related to prostitution. Between December 3 and 17, police, in collaboration with the Immigration Department, launched operations targeting property owners who ignored warnings against renting space for illegal activities. Officers conducted undercover operations, leading to the arrest of 83 individuals, including clients, sex workers, and property owners.
Among those detained was a 16-year-old girl from mainland China, as well as two Thai nationals, one of whom was reportedly cross-dressing.
