Police cited Supreme Court Case Order No. 38/2005, under which causing disturbance or inconvenience to neighbours and the general public through amplified sound can constitute a public nuisance punishable under Section 261 of the Penal Code.Police reiterated that the use of sound amplification equipment is generally prohibited between 10.00 p.m. and 6.00 a.m. Exceptions may be granted for special or religious events following an official assessment and subject to conditions specified in the relevant permits.

Under permitted arrangements, sound may be allowed until 10.00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, until 1.00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 12.30 a.m. on Sundays. However, police said that these time limits do not give permit holders an automatic right to operate loudspeakers at unrestricted volumes.Even during authorized hours, including between 6.00 a.m. and 10.00 p.m., sound must remain within the boundaries of the approved venue and must not cause disturbances to nearby residents.

Police officers will monitor venues operating under permits to ensure compliance. If a complaint is received, officers will inspect the location and order organizers to reduce or stop the sound if it is determined to be causing a public nuisance.Police said that failure to comply with police instructions could result in immediate legal action, including the seizure of sound equipment and prosecution under the relevant laws.Those affected by excessive or unauthorized noise are urged to lodge complaints with their nearest police station or contact the police emergency hotlines 118 or 119.