Coronavirus: Hong Kong to double fine for breaching quarantine orders to HK$10,000 as health experts warn of holiday rebound in cases

The city confirmed 7,596 new coronavirus infections on Tuesday, the fourth consecutive day the daily caseload was below the 10,000 mark.

In a late-night statement on Tuesday, the government announced nine amendments under the Prevention and Control of Disease Regulation which would come into effect from Thursday. It said the maximum fine for breaking quarantine and isolation orders would be increased from HK$5,000 to HK$10,000. The maximum jail term offenders face remains at six months.

Currently, people risk a maximum HK$5,000 fine and six months’ imprisonment if they leave a place where they were put under quarantine or isolation.

Under other amendments, those responsible for vulnerable individuals, including children and the mentally incapacitated, will be required to try their best to ensure that their charges comply with compulsory testing notices, directions or orders. Otherwise they face a maximum fine of HK$25,000 and six months’ imprisonment.

Security chief Chris Tang Ping-keung earlier this month warned that isolation orders came with legal power and that people risked legal consequences if they chose not to follow them.

Those who do not comply with compulsory testing orders, notices and directions also risk a maximum fine of HK$25,000 and six months’ jail.