29th August 2026 – (Hong Kong) Authorities in Sai Ying Pun are investigating a woman after she was reportedly seen burning clothing and joss paper in a storm drain on High Street. The incident, which is understood to have occurred under a banyan tree during the Hungry Ghost Festival, has sparked accusations of environmental negligence, as the use of an improper burning pan resulted in direct pollution of public infrastructure.
Such actions are believed to be in violation of the Public Cleansing and Prevention of Nuisances Regulation (Cap. 132BK), which prohibits the disposal of waste, including wastewater, in public places. Individuals convicted of such offences may face a maximum fine of 25,000 Hong Kong dollars and imprisonment for up to six months. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department is also empowered, under the Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness and Obstruction) Ordinance (Cap. 570), to issue a fixed penalty notice of 3,000 Hong Kong dollars to those found in breach.
