Domestic helpers accused over unlicensed dental clinic freed as magistrate faults immigration officers

Sha Tin Magistrates' Court heard the case of two domestic helpers, aged 35 and 38, charged with breaching their conditions of stay and aiding and abetting unlicensed dental practice. The magistrate ruled that immigration officers entered the home and detained them unlawfully, and found the officers' evidence unreliable. With that evidence excluded, the court found no case to answer and both were freed. Six people were originally arrested: two pleaded guilty and charges against two others had already been dropped.

What it means for you

The case shows unlicensed dental services do operate in the community. Unlicensed providers are not regulated at all, so check that anyone treating you is a registered dentist.

Key points

• Check the Dental Council register before treatment
• Be wary of dental work offered in private homes or as cheap home visits
• Report suspected unlicensed practice to the Department of Health

Source: HK Court News (hkcourtnews)

This is a news summary written by our editors, not medical advice. Please refer to the original source and seek professional advice for your own situation.