Hong Kong customs arrests 2 Opatra staff over aggressive sales tactics: source

Hong Kong customs authorities have apprehended two Opatra London employees, according to a South China Morning Post insider. The arrests occurred on Wednesday, marking the first legal action taken against the beauty chain, which has faced criticism for its aggressive sales methods, particularly targeting middle-aged and elderly customers.

The investigation began after Hong Kong customs received multiple complaints about Opatra's coercive and misleading sales practices. Victims have reported being pressured into buying goods ranging from HK$1,800 (US$230) to HK$100,000. One incident involved a 58-year-old woman who spent HK$61,400 at an Opatra store in Sha Tin New Town Plaza. A video of her apparent distress outside the shop quickly circulated online, drawing attention to the alleged unethical business practices.

Shortly after the complaints, authorities raided Opatra's registered office in Sheung Wan, but it turned out to be a secretarial company's address. They seized documents during the raid. Opatra's four Hong Kong branches, located in Sha Tin, Yuen Long, Causeway Bay, and Harbour City, have suspended operations in response to the allegations.

The company is also embroiled in lawsuits over unpaid rent totaling HK$795,000. Opatra operates its Hong Kong businesses through Sayles Retail Limited, a firm whose directors hold passports from Israel, Bulgaria, and Portugal. Opatra's UK headquarters maintains that the Hong Kong outlets are operated independently under a distribution agreement and has agreed to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigations.