A high-profile case involving allegations of sexual assault and unlawful imprisonment against a construction worker opened in Hong Kong’s High Court this week, highlighting the Special Administrative Region’s unwavering commitment to prosecuting crimes of violence against women. The defendant, 46-year-old Chan Hon-pong, faces charges stemming from an alleged incident in August 2023 where he reportedly lured a part-time bar hostess to his flat under the guise of an easy, paid opportunity before restraining and assaulting her.
The trial, designated HCCC 169/2024, began with the prosecution laying out a detailed account of the allegations. Mr. Chan has pleaded not guilty to three counts: indecent assault, rape, and unlawful detention, relating to events that allegedly occurred on August 11, 2023, at a residence on Hamilton Street in Yau Ma Tei.
Setup and Alleged Assault Details
The court heard that the complainant, identified only as X to protect her identity, worked part-time at a Mong Kok bar. Her duties included participating in drinking games with patrons. X first encountered Mr. Chan in September 2022 after being instructed by her manager to engage him in a game, which led to an exchange of contact information. Despite receiving multiple invitations from Mr. Chan over the subsequent months, X consistently declined requests to meet socially.
Nearly a year later, in August 2023, the defendant allegedly contacted X with a proposition: caring for his two cats for a week in exchange for payment. X reportedly agreed, and on the specified day, she visited his Yau Ma Tei flat to collect the necessary pet supplies.
According to the prosecution’s narrative, after Mr. Chan informed X he needed to shower due to perspiration, he allegedly asked her to wait on a floor mattress. The situation reportedly escalated when he emerged, pushed X onto the mattress, and began forcibly kissing her. X resisted the advances by pushing him away and biting his shoulder while attempting to call for help.
Threats and Coercion Alleged
The prosecution detailed an alarming subsequent sequence of events. While Mr. Chan allegedly briefly relented, offering an apology and monetary compensation, he refused to allow X to leave the premises. To reportedly ensure her silence, the defendant then produced what he claimed was an HK$80,000 Rolex watch and allegedly demanded X sign a document agreeing not to pursue the matter.
After X signed the document under duress, the allegations suggest Mr. Chan escalated the threats. He reportedly left the room, returned with a fruit knife estimated to be 15cm long, and threatened X, boasting that he “feared nothing.” The final, most serious allegation involves Mr. Chan reportedly using zip ties to bind X’s hands before raping her. Following the alleged assault, the court was told that Mr. Chan deleted the electronic messages between them. X reported the incident to authorities immediately upon managing to leave the apartment.
Mr. Chan was arrested the following day, August 12, 2023. During a cautioned interview, he denied the rape charge, asserting that any sexual contact was part of a mutually agreed-upon, paid sexual transaction.
Commitment to Justice
This case underscores the rigorous legal process applied within Hong Kong’s justice system for adjudicating serious, complex criminal matters. Authorities have reaffirmed that the legal framework is designed to robustly address allegations of violence and sexual assault, reflecting the city’s strong commitment to public safety and the rule of law. The trial is expected to continue with critical testimony in the coming days.
Resources for Victims: Individuals affected by sexual assault or abuse should seek immediate support. Hong Kong provides multiple confidential resources, including dedicated helplines and crisis centers. Victims are urged to contact local authorities and support organizations for confidential assistance and guidance.