Hong Kong Customs has arrested a woman in her 20s over allegations that customers were subjected to aggressive sales tactics at a beauty outlet formerly operated under the Opatra London brand, bringing the number of arrests linked to the investigation to three, according to the South China Morning Post.
The latest suspect allegedly pressured a customer into buying skincare products at the now-closed Sha Tin New Town Plaza outlet. Investigators were told that she allegedly used reasons such as claiming a facial treatment was not yet finished to keep the customer inside the shop while persuading her to make purchases.
More than 30 complaints reported
The development follows a growing number of complaints involving the beauty chain’s sales practices. A source told the SCMP that Hong Kong’s Customs and Excise Department had received more than 30 calls for help connected to the chain.
In late August, Customs said six alleged victims had come forward, reporting losses ranging from approximately HK$1,800 to HK$100,000.
The investigation began after a 58-year-old woman reported that she had spent HK$61,400 on products at the Sha Tin outlet and questioned the sales practices. Customs subsequently stepped in to investigate.
Three people arrested
Two other staff members—a 42-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, both described as managers linked to the brand—were arrested in August over similar allegations. Both were subsequently released on bail.
The latest arrest does not mean the woman has been found guilty. The allegations remain subject to investigation and any subsequent court proceedings.
The controversy has also affected the businesses involved. Opatra London and its Hong Kong distributor suspended local operations after the earlier arrests, while a senior executive associated with the local operator was reported to have resigned.
Why this case matters
Hong Kong’s Trade Descriptions Ordinance prohibits certain unfair practices, including harassment, coercion and misleading claims in consumer transactions. The investigation therefore goes beyond complaints about an unpleasant shopping experience and could raise broader questions about how aggressive sales techniques are used in the beauty industry.
Important: The allegations against the arrested individuals have not been proven in court.
WWC ONE MEDIA J.M.D
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