Introduction

In a bold move to combat rampant copyright infringement, Hong Kong Customs has successfully executed a large-scale enforcement operation dubbed “Magpie.” This operation spanned from December 9th to December 20th, 2024, targeting illegal activities commonly associated with party room operators who offer unauthorized karaoke songs.

Execution of Operation Magpie

Acting on intelligence gathered in conjunction with copyright holders, customs officers identified multiple party rooms suspected of violating the Copyright Ordinance. This led to a series of raids across various districts, including Tuen Mun, Kwai Chung, Kwun Tong, and Kowloon Bay.

Seizures and Arrests

During these coordinated efforts, customs seized an impressive array of items—including 16 karaoke machines allegedly used for playing pirated songs, a game console filled with suspected counterfeit games, and numerous audio and video devices. The total estimated market value of the confiscated equipment is around HK$400,000, sending a strong message to those flouting copyright laws.

Legal Consequences

Three men, aged between 31 and 40 and identified as the operators of the targeted party rooms, were arrested for their involvement in these illegal activities. The investigations are ongoing, and authorities have indicated that additional arrests may take place as the crackdown continues.

Future Enforcement

Customs officials have made it clear that they will intensify inspections and enforcement actions to safeguard the rights of copyright holders and deter similar violations in the future. Under Hong Kong's Copyright Ordinance, anyone caught in possession of pirated copies for commercial purposes faces severe consequences, including fines that can soar up to HK$50,000 per infringing item and potential prison sentences of up to four years upon conviction.

Conclusion

As the party scene continues to thrive in Hong Kong, this operation underscores the importance of complying with copyright laws and respecting the creative rights of artists and copyright owners. Business operators are strongly advised to engage with copyright holders before using any musical visual recordings in their venues to avoid heavy penalties and legal action. Stay tuned as we follow this story for further developments!