Mainland driver jailed for illegally operating ride-hailing service in HK

A 52-year-old man from the mainland who rented a car and offered paid rides through the Chinese app AutoNavi was sentenced to three months in prison and a one-year driving ban after admitting he worked without insurance or permission during a two-way permit visit.

Li, who described himself as a salesman, pleaded guilty in Eastern Magistrates’ Court to three charges: using a vehicle for hire or reward, driving without third-party insurance, and breaching his conditions of stay.

The case began on the morning of September 23 when a passenger booked a ride from Nam Fung Sun Chuen in Quarry Bay.

Upon boarding the private car, the rider noticed Li speaking mainly Mandarin with halting Cantonese and asked to see identification.

An argument erupted, prompting Li to pull over outside Montane Mansion, abandon the vehicle with the passenger still inside, and flee.

Police tracked Li to the Man Kam To Control Point, where he was arrested as he tried to leave Hong Kong. Under caution, he confessed that his sole purpose for entering the city was to earn money.

He had rented the car specifically to provide rides via AutoNavi, knowing full well he lacked valid third-party coverage and that his permit, valid only until September 30, prohibited employment or business activities.