He said his friend can only get the Group Visa (Lç¾) for HK, but since 2017 it doesn't matter which type you have anymore. Everybody can travel individually without needing a group.
https://kknews.cc/zh-hk/travel/bqnqlao.html
We just had someone come over to give a training and ImmD issued him with a 4 day work visa on his Chinese two-way permit with only the Group Visa for HK, didn't have any problems leaving China.
For those that are interested - the individual permits are available again - to both Hong Kong and Macao. Probably were all along - she might have just made a mistake on the application website.
Beijingers have to apply for permits - I don't think all provinces have the same rules still with regard to SAR visits...
Regarding group permits - these are not a great alternative.
I don't think they can ignore the group once they are in HK - have stay in the group hotel, follow the group leader with the little flag, wear a stupid hat; It's demeaning.
+1 for the title of this thread. I'm sure this won't throw any red flags
"Smuggling a friend across the border"