Cabbies may break the law by accident over sting operations against Uber: John Lee

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu urged cabbies with limited legal knowledge not to conduct their own “undercover” operations to bust Uber drivers as they have never received relevant training and may accidentally break the law. 

His remarks came on Tuesday as a number of videos have been circulating online, showing taxi drivers posing as Uber passengers and calling the police upon arriving at the destination. 

Lee noted that sting operations involve legal issues and if the law enforcement agencies are to conduct one they have to follow stringent regulations. 

Officers must also learn the law and undergo sufficient training so as to ensure they can handle emergencies on the spot, he said. 

He continued that anyone who has never been trained and has limited legal knowledge may accidentally break the law during the sting operations. 

The Hong Kong leader stressed that cabbies should file a report to law enforcement agencies if they have any complaints and relevant departments will take necessary actions. 

Lee added that the Transport and Logistics Bureau has been studying relevant legislation and policies on online ride-hailing services and will report their preliminary findings to the Legislative Council in July. 

Lee also said he understands that society has diversions about online ride-hailing services and that the government will listen to public opinion when considering the direction for future development. 

Also read: 

- Steer clear of undercover Uber ops, union chief tells taxi drivers

- Cabbies urged to exercise restraint after going undercover to bust Uber drivers themselves

- (Editorial) Taxi drivers fire Uber warning shot