Hong Kong arrests 15 in insurance qualification fraud case

The operation covered nine sites and involved both the regulator and police.

The Insurance Authority (IA) and the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) have carried out a joint enforcement operation targeting an examination centre linked to alleged examination fraud for professional insurance qualifications.

Fifteen individuals, including three active and three former licensed insurance intermediaries, were arrested during searches across nine locations on 27 August 2026.

The investigation focused on an examination centre operated by Greater China Wemedia Association Limited, which administered tests for the Fellow, Life Management Institute (FLMI) qualification granted by LOMA.

In light of evidence that fraudulent practices had persisted over time without adequate oversight by LOMA, the IA suspended the FLMI designation with immediate effect as an accepted educational qualification for licensing insurance intermediaries. 

The regulator will also conduct a comprehensive review of all licensing cases where credentials were acquired through the affected examination centre.

The action represents the inaugural joint operation between the IA and the HKPF following the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding on 27 March 2024 to strengthen industry oversight.

Head of Enforcement at the IA, Maria Tsui, stated that the operation establishes an enduring partnership aimed at maintaining integrity across the insurance sector and protecting policyholders.