Police are appealing for information from anyone who may have been deceived by an advertising company claiming to have organised a mahjong contest at the International Trade & Exhibition Centre.

The company, located in a commercial building on Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, put up posters in bars and restaurants and advertised in magazines claiming the competition would be held today.

Each participant needed to pay a $200 entrance fee, which would entitle them to take part in the event which included free lunch. They also to have prizes worth $700,000.

However, contestants found no such competition upon their arrival at the venue this morning. Police have so far received 22 reports of the case. The total loss is estimated to be $4,000.

Possible victims are urged to contact Mong Kok Police on 2398 6200 or 6101 0146.