Hong Kong Customs yesterday (August 27) arrested a shop owner and two beauticians of a beauty parlour suspected of using false trade descriptions contravening the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO) in the sale of beauty services to a consumer.
Customs earlier received a complaint about a beauty parlour which used an inferior model of a device in the provision of beauty treatment, instead of a superior model of the device as claimed.
After in-depth investigation, Customs conducted a test-buy operation yesterday and found that the beauticians concerned were suspected of applying false trade descriptions of the TDO in the sale of a beauty service. The 32 year-old shop owner and two beauticians, aged 41 and 28, of the beauty parlour were arrested. The case is still under investigation and the arrested persons are on bail pending further investigation.
A trader commits an offence under the TDO if he or she applies false trade descriptions to a service supplied to a consumer, or if he or she supplies to a customer a service to which a false trade description is applied. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
Hong Kong Customs reminded beauty service traders and beauticians to abide by the law. During the course of sale of beauty services, they should state all relevant information to consumers in a clear and accurate manner and shall not apply false trade descriptions to mislead consumers. Consumers should be aware of the details of the beauty service as well as any potential risks. Consumers should procure services at reputable shops. In case of doubt, consumers should seek professional advice.
Members of the public may report suspected cases contravening the TDO to Customs by calling the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Friday, August 28, 2015