Hong Kong Customs officers have arrested a Tsim Sha Tsui beauty parlour worker suspected of engaging in aggressive commercial practices.

Acting on a complaint from a customer, Customs alleges the staff member acted in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).

The complainant said they were forced to procure a beauty treatment valued at $22,000.

“After investigation, Customs officers today arrested a 32-year-old woman. Investigation is ongoing and the arrested person has been released on bail pending further investigation,” Customs said in a statement.

“Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO and consumers to procure services at reputable shops.”

Under the TDO, any trader commits an offence of engaging in aggressive commercial practices if harassment, coercion or undue influence is used to impair the consumer’s freedom of choice or conduct, causing the consumer to make a transactional decision. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.