Hong Kong customs officers have arrested a woman on suspicion of using aggressive tactics to sell skincare products at a local beauty chain formerly operating under the Opatra London brand, bringing the number of arrests in the case to three, the South China Morning Post has learned.
A source said on Wednesday the saleswoman, who is in her twenties, allegedly pressured a customer into making purchases at the now-closed Sha Tin New Town Plaza outlet, which was formerly operated by Sayles Retail.
She reportedly used excuses such as “the facial treatment is not yet finished” to keep the customer in the shop before persuading her to buy products.
The source said the Customs and Excise Department had received more than 30 calls for help linked to the chain.
In late August, customs said six alleged victims of aggressive sales tactics had come forward and reported losses ranging from HK$1,800 (US$230) to HK$100,000.
That same month, customs officers arrested two staff members – a 42‑year‑old Hong Kong man and a 25‑year‑old woman, both managers linked to the brand – over similar tactics. They were later released on bail.