Two Opatra Hong Kong managers arrested by Customs
Thestandard · 3 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong Customs on Wednesday arrested a 25-year-old administrative manager and a 42-year-old financial manager linked to Opatra London’s Hong Kong operations over suspected breaches of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance.
The action followed public complaints and a widely shared video showing a woman outside the Sha Tin New Town Plaza branch alleging she was pressured into spending about HK$60,000 on products.
Customs said the two arrestees were involved in company operations and that the investigation is continuing, with further arrests not ruled out.
Opatra London’s UK head office said the Hong Kong stores are independently owned and operated by a local company under a distribution agreement, and that the arrested individuals are not its employees or office-holders.
Key Points
- Customs said it had received six complaints by Tuesday, involving sums ranging from HK$1,800 to more than HK$100,000.
- The case drew attention after a 58-year-old woman reported being hard-sold products worth more than HK$60,000 at the Sha Tin branch.
- Customs said the company operates several branches in Sha Tin, Yuen Long and Causeway Bay, selling hand cream, face cream and beauty devices.
- Authorities said they are examining related companies mentioned in media reports and will investigate any possible links or unlawful conduct.
- The UK head office said it has sought a full written explanation from the Hong Kong distributor, launched an independent review and will cooperate fully.
Why It Matters
The case raises fresh concern over aggressive retail sales tactics targeting middle-aged and elderly consumers in Hong Kong.
It also puts pressure on cross-border brand and distributor arrangements, as the UK parent has publicly distanced itself from the Hong Kong stores while local investigators examine how the business was run.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, aggressive commercial practices carry a maximum penalty of HK$500,000 and five years’ imprisonment.