Hong Kong police have initiated a citywide manhunt and apprehended two individuals suspected of assisting the alleged assailant who severely injured three Customs officers during a narcotics raid on Thursday afternoon in To Kwa Wan. The primary suspect, who allegedly slashed the officers with a cleaver before escaping, remains at large, prompting a heightened investigative effort by authorities.
The incident unfolded around 5:00 p.m. on Thursday when Customs officers attempted to search a unit at 80M To Kwa Wan Road. According to police reports, the suspect became uncooperative and allegedly attacked the officers with a knife before fleeing the scene. The three wounded officers, who sustained injuries to their limbs, were conscious when transported to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Crackdown Leads to Early Morning Arrests
In a rapid development, detectives from the West Kowloon Regional Crime Unit, supported by tactical response teams, intercepted a white seven-seater vehicle near Sincere Podium on Argyle Street in Mong Kok just before 1:00 a.m. Friday. A male driver was detained and taken into custody for questioning regarding potential involvement in facilitating the escape of the key suspect.
While police confirmed that the detained individual is not the alleged attacker, sources indicate this arrest is directly linked to the investigation into the assault on the public officers. Later inquiries led to the apprehension of a second individual suspected of aiding the fugitive.
Evidence Recovered at Scene
The initial search of the To Kwa Wan flat yielded significant evidence linked to multiple serious offenses. Inside the unit, officers recovered five suspected imitation firearms along with a quantity of suspected dangerous drugs. The total street value of the confiscated narcotics is currently under assessment. Furthermore, a substantial knife, approximately 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) long, believed to be the weapon used in the attack, was found discarded in the stairwell of the building.
The West Kowloon Regional Crime Unit has officially taken over the investigation, with charges currently focused on three major offenses: wounding, trafficking in dangerous drugs, and possession of imitation firearms.
Search for the Fugitive Continues
Authorities have issued a detailed description of the wanted man as the hunt intensifies across the territory. The suspect is described as a man approximately 38 years old, standing between 1.75 and 1.8 meters (approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 11 inches) tall. He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, green shorts, and black trainers.
The swift police action underscores Hong Kong’s zero-tolerance policy regarding violence against law enforcement and public officers, particularly during anti-narcotics operations.
Key Information for Public Safety:
- Suspected Charges: Wounding, drug trafficking, and illegal possession of imitation firearms.
- Wanted Suspect Description: Male, approximately 38 years old, 1.75–1.8m tall, dressed in a black T-shirt, green shorts, and black trainers.
- Actionable Takeaway: Members of the public are urged to contact the police immediately if they have any information regarding the whereabouts of the fugitive. Information can be shared confidentially.
The safety and security of public enforcement personnel remain paramount as the investigation continues, highlighting the inherent risks involved in frontline anti-drug operations. Authorities anticipate further arrests as they pursue all individuals connected to the assault and illegal activities at the apartment.