Attempting to cause explosion - a serious offence

Police today (September 20) warned that attempting to cause explosion with intent to endanger life or property is a serious offence liable to a maximum penalty of 20 years' imprisonment.

The warning is made following a current investigation by the Technology Crime Division into a recent incident in which people published an online message suggesting the use of explosive to threaten life/property.

"This may amount to an offence of attempting to cause explosion with intent to endanger life or property under Section 54 of the Crimes Ordinance, Chapter 200 of the Hong Kong Law," a Police spokesman said.

"It is also a serious offence for any person who in any manner whatsoever to procure, counsel, aid, abet or is accessory to the commission of the above offence. The 'aider and abettor', if convicted, is also liable to the same punishment of the principal offender i.e. an imprisonment of 20 years," the spokesman added.

"Apart from the above specific case about explosion, the Hong Kong Police Force strongly advise members of the public to use the Internet wisely and legally. All existing legislation which prohibit criminality in the "physical" world such as publication of obscene or child pornographic materials, infringement of personal data protection principles and copyright materials, fraud, etc, equally apply to criminal acts committed in the "cyber" environment.

"People should also refrain from responding to any criminal element which they may come across on the Internet inadvertently.

"The Hong Kong Police Force will continue to work closely with all Internet Services Providers, Webmasters, Discussion Forums and alike to ensure no abuses of the Internet for any type of criminal activities," the spokesman said.


Police Report No. 7
Issued by PPRB

End/Tuesday, September 20, 2006