DH issues five penalty notices for illegal waterpipe smoking in Central bar

Hong Kong health authorities detained two individuals and issued five HK$1,500 fines during a late-night operation targeting illegal waterpipe smoking, the Department of Health announced Friday. The enforcement action at a Central bar marked the latest effort to curb smoking violations in the city.  

Undercover officers from the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office conducted Thursday night's raid, codenamed "Pipepurge," issuing fixed penalty notices to patrons caught smoking waterpipes in the no-smoking area. Authorities confirmed two arrests for allegedly aiding and abetting the offenses, with potential prosecution looming for venue operators who could face fines up to HK$50,000 under the Smoking Ordinance.  

Health officials expressed particular concern about waterpipe use, noting that establishments permitting such activities risk additional sanctions from the Liquor Licensing Board. Medical experts warn that a single waterpipe session exposes users to smoke volumes equivalent to 100-200 cigarettes, while shared equipment raises transmission risks for diseases including tuberculosis.  

The operation follows 162 similar enforcement actions last year that resulted in 162 HK$1,500 fines and 89 summonses. The department reminded the public that smoking prohibitions carry equal force for all tobacco products, with businesses potentially liable for maximum HK$50,000 fines for violations related to promotion or sale of smoking products.  

Officials urged smokers to access cessation services and advised anyone experiencing dizziness, nausea or confusion after waterpipe use to seek immediate medical attention, symptoms that may indicate carbon monoxide poisoning. The health department vowed to maintain rigorous enforcement of smoking regulations across all licensed premises.