Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Abortions Involving Domestic Workers in Hong Kong**

Recent police investigations led to the arrest of eleven domestic workers in Hong Kong for illegal abortion practices, highlighting the complexities surrounding abortion regulations in the territory.**

Eleven domestic workers in Hong Kong, aged between their 30s and 40s, have been arrested on accusations of "child destruction" and illegal abortions, according to police statements. The arrests occurred after authorities discovered one of the women at her employer's residence, where a deceased foetus was found, confirmed to be at least 28 weeks gestation.

Police investigations have revealed that drugs suspected to be abortion pills were also collected, leading to the arrest of ten additional women. As it stands, five individuals are now facing formal charges, while an equal number awaits bail hearings, and one remains in custody for ongoing inquiries. If convicted of child destruction—a grave offence in Hong Kong—those implicated may face life imprisonment.

The investigation was initiated in June when paramedics attended to a 39-year-old domestic worker who had collapsed. Upon arrival, they found the foetus concealed in a laundry basket within her room. During questioning, the woman disclosed that she had procured abortion pills from a friend, who is also a foreign domestic helper.

Following her arrest in July, authorities executed a series of raids from late July to early August, which resulted in the apprehension of eight additional domestic workers. Inspector Lam Ho-yin from the Yuen Long district crime squad commented that the case does not seem to involve an established crime syndicate but suggested that the 32-year-old suspect might have smuggled the pills from another country for sale.

While abortion is legal in Hong Kong, it is strictly regulated. Abortions are permitted up to 24 weeks in cases where the mother's life could be endangered or in cases of severe foetal abnormalities, while procedures beyond this point are limited to situations threatening the mother’s life. Those found guilty of supplying or using abortion-related drugs could face severe penalties, including up to seven years of imprisonment.

On a related note, Hong Kong police have advised employers to encourage their domestic workers to consult medical professionals if they suspect pregnancy. The territory is home to approximately 368,000 foreign domestic workers, predominantly from the Philippines and Indonesia, with an average monthly wage set by the government at HK$4,990 (around US$636).