21
Increased funds have been made available to speed up provision and more liaison is taking place. As an example of this liaison, in recent months the Police, CNTA and China Light and Power have been conducting publicity campaigns against illegal abstraction of electricity. In the target areas of Kwun Tong and Wong Tai Sin, illegal abstraction has now decreased by 50%. But illegal abstraction continues to be a problem and WGOG will again shortly be considering it to see what further steps may be taken.
3.12
Temporary housing areas [THAS]
—
In mid 1984
Government started to build the huts in THAS. Previously the individuals allocated the sites had to arrange for the building. This change in policy eliminated a significant opportunity for triads who were, through intimidation and control of private contractors and intimidation of THA residents, building up a monopoly to their advantage.
3.13
Public Housing and Home Ownership Estates Triads have also tried to exploit the decorating of public housing units. The "approved contractor" system has controlled triad influence in decorating Public Housing Estate units. Only contractors who have been vetted by the Police are allowed to supply services. WGOG has investigated the decorating of home ownership (HOS) units and concluded that a major problem also existed there but that it was difficult to make similar provisions. A solution is not simple. Residents own their flats and may reasonably expect to employ whichever contractor they wish to fit out their flats. WGOG is still considering the issue. Meanwhile the HD is following up the Working Group's recommendation that successful applicants for decorating shop premises in HOS estates be vetted for triad connexions.
3.14
Hawking WGOG has held extensive discussions with the Director of Urban Services on hawking. WGOG is now considering the Urban Council Consultative Document from the view point of limiting triad and gang opportunities in the field of hawking.
Abattoirs
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3.15
In late 1984 WGOG concluded that there was a problem of gambling and drugs in the area where animals are unloaded and sold. Improved procedures are now being examined for implementation.
3.16
Festivals - WGOG has discussed several reports prepared by the Police on the extent of triad involvement in festivals, particularly the Tin Hau Festival. The position is now much improved, thanks to concerted police action. The Police have introduced tighter licensing conditions and other measures to restrict the involvement of triads.