Chargers supplied with certain Sony Ericsson mobile phones or sold separately are defective and owners should stop using them immediately for safety reasons.

The Electrical & Mechanical Services Department gave the advice after noticing an overseas recall announcement.

The defective chargers carry the model number CST-13 and the identification number BML 162 099/3 R1A. The charger is also marked, "Made in Thailand by Delta".

Beginning in September, 2002, the charger was supplied with Sony Ericsson mobile phone models T68i, T300, T310 and T610. It was also sold as a standalone accessory.

The department promptly coordinated a local recall with supplier Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications International.  

Component failure could cause pressure build-up

According to the supplier, there is a risk of component failure which could cause pressure to build up inside the chargers.

This could cause the top plastic part of the chargers to break off, exposing live contacts that could cause electric shock or pose a fire hazard to nearby flammable materials.

Owners should return the chargers to the supplier promptly for a replacement. Before unplugging the chargers, for safety reasons, they should switch off the electricity supply to the socket outlet.