The Hong Kong Police Force  announced on Tuesday the start of a two-week territory-wide enforcement operation targeting pedestrians and drivers committing offenses.

The operation, which is being conducted to improve road safety, targets careless drivers who jump the light at traffic lights and pedestrians who jaywalk (cross the road unlawfully), with fines of up to HK$2,000 ($255) upon prosecution.

Traffic accidents in 2025 claimed 52 lives — a 24 percent year-on-year rise. "This is about safety, not revenue; we aim to prevent accidents," the police said.

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Officers said that penalties apply for red-light violations and other unsafe crossing behavior; in particular, they will be applied for three common violations under the Road Traffic (Traffic Control) Regulations.

First, diagonal crossing in L-shaped pedestrian zones. Second, entering crosswalks from sidewalks on flashing green lights. Third, crossing outside designated areas if zebra crossings, footbridges, underpasses are within 15 meters.

Police urge drivers to avoid running red lights, squeezing through traffic gaps, and ignoring vehicle blind spots.

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They also remind drivers not to use their phone while driving or they could face a maximum fine of HK$2,000 upon prosecution.

Contact the writer at tongsijiu@chinadailyhk.com