Taxi Driver Faces Community Service Sentence After Assault Case
Taxi Driver Sentenced to Community Service
A Hong Kong taxi driver has been sentenced to 200 hours of community service for molesting a female tourist earlier this year, in a case which has caused concern in the transport department about unprofessional conduct in the industry.
Defendant Lui Kwan-ying was spared jail at Kowloon City Court on Wednesday at the recommendation of a probation officer. The officer found the 66-year-old showed remorse for the offence. Acting principal magistrate David Ko Wai-hung stated he took the officer's advice reluctantly, noting the seriousness of the indecent assault.
Details of the Incident
- Lui pleaded guilty last month to a count of indecent assault.
- The incident occurred while transporting the Malaysian tourist in the early hours.
- Lui asked the victim to sit next to him, before touching her thighs.
- She managed to take a picture of his taxi licence and called the police.
This case underlines ongoing issues within the taxi sector of Hong Kong, which has seen a surge in complaints.
Ongoing Issues in the Taxi Industry
- 1,006 serious complaints against taxi drivers were reported last year, nearly double 2022's numbers.
- Complaints were primarily about refusal to accept passengers and overcharging.
- A demerit point system was introduced to penalise unprofessional conduct among drivers.
- New 'premium taxi' fleet licences were approved to improve service quality.
The public continues to be on alert regarding the conduct of taxi drivers as authorities push for improved service standards.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.