Chau tricked his clients by asking them to pay more than the course fees, with one of them being told to buy an Omega watch as a gift.

The court did not order Chau to pay compensation to the victims, and instead suggested that they file a civil lawsuit if they wished to pursue compensation.

Chau said he had filed a request for a review of the ruling.

Customs said the sentence is a clear warning to unscrupulous practitioners in the industry.