Hong Kong auxiliary policeman charged over alleged indecent act while driving taxi

Hong Kong authorities have charged an off duty auxiliary police officer with an offence related to public decency following allegations that he committed an indecent act while driving a taxi in one of the city’s busiest districts.

Police said the incident involved a 57 year old man who was arrested on September 1 after a female passenger reported inappropriate behaviour during a taxi journey in Causeway Bay. At the time of the alleged offence, the man was not on active police duty and was operating the taxi in a private capacity.

According to investigators, the suspect was driving with a 55 year old woman as his sole passenger when he allegedly carried out an indecent act during the journey. The woman later reported the matter to police, prompting an investigation that led to the man’s arrest.

Following his detention, the officer was charged with acts outraging public decency. He has since been suspended from duty pending the outcome of legal proceedings, police confirmed. The case is scheduled to be heard at Eastern Court on Tuesday, where the defendant is expected to formally enter a plea.

The Hong Kong Police Force said it treats allegations of misconduct involving officers with seriousness, regardless of whether the individual is on or off duty at the time. In a brief statement, police stressed that any behaviour that undermines public trust or violates the law would be handled in accordance with established disciplinary and legal procedures.

Auxiliary police officers in Hong Kong are part time members who support regular officers during large scale operations, public events and emergencies. While they do not serve full time, they are still expected to uphold the same standards of conduct as career officers, particularly when their actions may affect public confidence in law enforcement.

Legal experts note that the offence of acts outraging public decency is a common law charge in Hong Kong and can apply to behaviour deemed offensive or obscene in a public setting. Convictions can carry serious penalties, depending on the circumstances and the court’s assessment of the impact on victims and the wider public.

The incident occurred in Causeway Bay, a densely populated commercial area known for its shopping streets and heavy traffic. The case has drawn attention due to both the location and the suspect’s role as an auxiliary police officer, raising questions about professional conduct and accountability.

The upcoming hearing at Eastern Court will determine how the case proceeds. If convicted, the man could face legal consequences as well as further disciplinary action within the force. Police have not indicated whether internal proceedings will continue separately from the court case.

Authorities have encouraged members of the public to report any suspected criminal behaviour, emphasising that complaints are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly. As the case moves through the judicial process, officials say they will continue to cooperate fully with the courts to ensure the matter is handled transparently and in line with the law.