Police crack down on illegal ride-hailing services, arrest two drivers

New Territories North Traffic Police conducted an undercover operation on Friday evening targeting illegal ride-hailing services, commonly known as illegal taxis.

Officers posed as passengers and booked two private cars via an online platform in Yuen Long District. Upon arrival at the destination, the drivers—two local men aged 39 and 44—were arrested on suspicion of "illegal use of a vehicle for hire or reward" and "using a vehicle without third-party insurance."

Neither vehicle possessed a valid hire car permit. The suspects have been released on bail pending further investigation and are required to report back to police in late July.

Under Hong Kong’s Road Traffic Ordinance, it is illegal to use a private car for paid transport without a proper permit. First-time offenders face a HK$10,000 fine and six months’ imprisonment, while repeat offenders may be fined HK$25,000 and jailed for up to 12 months.

Additionally, the Motor Vehicles Insurance (Third Party Risks) Ordinance mandates third-party insurance for all vehicles. Violators risk a HK$10,000 fine, 12 months’ imprisonment, and a driving ban of 12 months to three years. Offending vehicles may also be impounded and have their licenses revoked.

Police emphasized a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal ride-hailing activities and vowed to continue targeted enforcement operations.