• Property owners advised on rentals-crime link
• To crack down on vehicle owners with dangerous modifications, noisy exhausts  

The Police have issued public advisories warning property owners and vehicle owners against activities that could lead to legal action and public safety risks.

Property owners have been urged to exercise caution when renting or leasing houses, apartments, hotels, lodges, commercial buildings, and other premises, as such locations are increasingly being used for fraudulent and criminal activities. Police noted a rise in arrests of foreign nationals involved in sophisticated online financial fraud operations during 2025 and 2026, many of which were run covertly from rented premises. In several cases, suspects were also found violating immigration laws, while computers and electronic equipment used in the offences were seized.

Police reminded the public that, under Section 76 of the Police Ordinance, household heads must provide details of residents, domestic staff, and temporary occupants to the relevant Police station, and report any changes in occupancy. Failure to comply is a punishable offence. Property owners were also advised to verify the identity, background, and purpose of prospective tenants before entering into rental agreements. Information on suspicious individuals or activities can be reported to Police emergency hotlines 119 or 118, the nearest Police station, or Public Safety Committees within Police divisions.

Meanwhile, Police warned against illegally modified vehicles operating without valid fitness certificates, noting that recent analyses of road accidents revealed many buses involved had undergone unauthorised modifications. Authorities said dangerous alterations, unauthorised lights, non-standard horns, changes to vehicle colour or design, excessive decals, and structural modifications without approval are illegal under the Motor Traffic Act.

Police also highlighted the growing issue of excessively noisy exhaust systems and smoke-emitting vehicles, stating that such modifications cause public nuisance and noise pollution. Complaints regarding vehicles emitting excessive black smoke can be made to 0703500525 by providing the vehicle registration number, date, time, and location of the incident.