Hong Kong, 23 April 2025 — The Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD) has repatriated 26 Vietnamese nationals deemed to be in the city illegally, as part of an ongoing effort to expedite the removal of unsubstantiated non-refoulement claimants.
In a statement released Tuesday, the ImmD confirmed the successful deportation of 11 men and 15 women, all of whom were classified as non-refoulement claimants whose applications were found to be without merit. Some individuals in the group had previously served prison sentences in Hong Kong for criminal offences.
The department reiterated its commitment to upholding effective immigration control and protecting public safety. It stated that the latest repatriation was carried out in accordance with an enhanced removal policy introduced on 7 December 2022, which aims to streamline the deportation process.
Under the current policy framework, the ImmD is permitted to proceed with removals promptly after judicial review applications are dismissed by the Court of First Instance of the High Court. This legal provision has enabled the department to act more swiftly in removing individuals whose claims have been conclusively rejected.
Authorities noted that the repatriation reflects the government’s determination to deter illegal immigration and ensure the integrity of Hong Kong’s asylum and immigration systems.
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