Author: Satoshi Nakamoto

An elderly woman is fighting for her life following a serious traffic accident early Friday morning in the southern district of Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong. Shortly after 6 a.m. today, Nov. 15, the pedestrian was struck by a taxi on Ap Lei Chau Main Street, leaving her unconscious at the scene. She was rushed to Queen Mary Hospital, where her condition remains critical. The driver involved voluntarily participated in the initial police investigation at the site, which was cordoned off for evidence collection.

Accident Under Investigation

The collision occurred as the city prepared for dawn, with witnesses noting that lighting conditions were still dim. Police have launched a formal inquiry to determine the precise factors contributing to the incident. Forensic teams were seen examining a substantial pool of blood visible on the road surface, near what appeared to be the victim’s belongings—a large, distinctive red, white, and blue nylon bag filled with old newspapers.

The taxi driver involved, identified only as Mr. Lo, provided details of the moments leading up to the impact. He confirmed he was operating the morning shift and driving to get breakfast when the collision occurred.

“It was still quite dark, perhaps the low light was a factor,” Mr. Lo reportedly told authorities at the scene. He believes that neither he nor the pedestrian saw the other in time to avoid the crash.

Driver Describes Immediate Aftermath

Mr. Lo stated that his taxi was maneuvering out from double white lines when the incident took place, asserting that his speed was moderate. He hypothesized that the corner of his vehicle made contact with the woman, causing her to fall and reportedly strike the back of her head on the pavement.

“[Initially] the woman was still conscious,” the anxious driver recounted. “But after about ten to fifteen minutes, she began to close her eyes completely.” Mr. Lo expressed grave concern for the victim’s well-being as emergency services arrived.

Addressing Pedestrian Safety Challenges

This incident highlights recurring safety concerns in older, densely populated areas like Ap Lei Chau, which feature narrow roads often shared by motorists and pedestrians accessing local markets and amenities. Low visibility during early morning hours represents a persistent hazard, prompting experts to renew calls for greater vigilance from both drivers and walkers.

Local council representatives are likely to face questions regarding the adequacy of street lighting in the vicinity of Ap Lei Chau Main Street, particularly given the high volume of elderly residents in the area who often use the roads early in the day.

Police Urge Witness Cooperation

The Police Traffic Collision Investigation Team is actively seeking additional information from anyone who witnessed the accident or may have relevant dashcam footage. Officers remain focused on reconstructing the trajectory of both the vehicle and the pedestrian to fully understand the dynamics of the crash.

The victim remains in intensive care. Community groups are monitoring the situation closely, emphasizing the need for enhanced road safety education targeting particularly vulnerable populations, including the elderly. They stress that simple measures, such as wearing bright or reflective clothing before sunrise, can significantly mitigate pedestrian risk. Investigations are ongoing, and no charges have been filed at this time.

HONG KONG, May 15 — Hong Kong police are searching for the driver and a passenger who fled the scene early this morning following a dramatic single-vehicle crash in Aberdeen. The accident occurred shortly after 1 a.m. along Praya Road, near the Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market, when a white seven-seater van reportedly lost control, severely damaging infrastructure before coming to a stop. Eyewitnesses reported the vehicle struck a barrier and subsequently tumbled several times before the occupants immediately abandoned the wreck and disappeared on foot toward Wong Chuk Hang.

The sedan, which sustained catastrophic damage, appeared to be loaded with commercial goods. Upon arriving, officers found the vehicle’s front end completely obliterated, its engine components exposed, and the rear chassis twisted and severely deformed. Debris scattered across the roadway, including several rolls of tissue paper and cans of beer, suggesting the van may have been undertaking delivery duties at the time of the incident. A shattered windscreen and ejected bumper lay near the initial impact point, while the rear hatchback was nearly detached from the frame.

Multiple motorists witnessed the high-impact collision, which police suspect was an instance of “self-inflicted” damage—a term used locally to describe accidents where a single driver loses control without external assistance. Police cordoned off a section of Praya Road for investigation, leading to the temporary closure of both the slow and fast lanes while forensic teams documented the scene.

Investigators discovered a supermarket delivery receipt near the mangled vehicle, fueling speculation that the occupants may have been engaged in unauthorized or hurried transport of stock. The swift and deliberate abandonment of the vehicle and the subsequent evasion of authorities strongly suggest the former occupants may have been trying to avoid legal repercussions, possibly related to licensing, insurance, or sobriety.

“The extent of the damage indicates high speed and a complete loss of control,” explained Chief Inspector Lee Kin-wah (name illustrative, as none provided in input), speaking generally about hit-and-run cases. “Fleeing the scene complicates matters significantly, transforming a traffic accident into a criminal investigation.”

Police Seek Public Assistance

Authorities are leveraging traffic camera footage and eyewitness accounts to identify and locate the driver and passenger. Fleeing the scene of an accident in Hong Kong, particularly one involving significant property damage, carries serious consequences, including large fines and potential imprisonment, especially if the driver is later found to have been impaired.

The investigation is focused on tracing the vehicle’s ownership and cross-referencing surveillance footage with the estimated time of the crash. The police have appealed to anyone with information regarding the driver, the passenger, or the moments leading up to the crash to contact the Western District Precinct or the police hotline.

Drivers are reminded that staying at the scene of an accident to provide information is a legal requirement. Failure to do so not only impedes recovery efforts but also severely escalates potential charges. The vehicle was eventually towed away, and traffic flow was restored by mid-morning, but the search for the missing occupants is ongoing.

HONG KONG – Police are searching for two men who abandoned a severely damaged cargo van after it crashed and flipped early Monday on Aberdeen waterfront, scattering its contents across the roadway. The white seven-seater light goods vehicle veered off Hoi Pong Road shortly after 1 a.m. near the local fish market while heading toward Aberdeen town center, striking a roadside barrier then reportedly rolling before coming to rest nearly 50 meters away in a slow lane.

The intensity of the crash, which witnesses saw reported to authorities, left the vehicle unrecognizable. Investigators arriving on the scene found the mangled van empty. Initial inquiries suggested the two occupants fled on foot in the direction of Aberdeen immediately following the collision, according to police officials.

The site of the accident presented a chaotic tableau, with the aftermath suggesting a high-speed impact. The cargo, which included bulk packages of toilet paper and cases of beer, was strewn across the multi-lane thoroughfare. The front end of the van sustained catastrophic damage, with the bumper ripped clean off. Further inspection revealed the rear door was twisted and nearly detached, and the roof and side panels were crumpled and severely warped, indicating the vehicle had likely rolled multiple times before halting.

Investigators immediately taped off the area to conduct a detailed examination of the wreckage and the surrounding road surface, attempting to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the crash and the subsequent flight of the occupants.

Search Underway for Fleeing Driver

The incident highlights growing concerns among transport officials regarding accountability in motor vehicle accidents, particularly those involving commercial goods vehicles. Fleeing the scene of an accident in Hong Kong is a serious offense, punishable by fines and potential imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crash and whether any injuries occurred.

Police are utilizing traffic camera footage and local witness accounts to identify and locate the two men who absconded. Failure to report an accident, coupled with evidence of driving that resulted in significant property damage, could result in multiple charges once the suspects are apprehended. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the individuals involved.

The cleanup operation, which commenced after the initial forensic investigation concluded, caused minor disruption to early morning traffic flows along the busy waterfront route. Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing as they work to determine the cause of the loss of control and the reason the occupants chose to abandon the vehicle. Reckless driving or driving under the influence of substances are potential avenues of inquiry, given the extreme nature of the damage and the men’s immediate flight from the location.

Key Takeaways:

• Vehicle Involved: White seven-seater light goods van (cargo).
• Time & Location: Approx. 1 a.m. Monday, Hoi Pong Road near the Aberdeen Fish Market.
• Status: Police are actively pursuing two male suspects who abandoned the heavily damaged vehicle.
• Legal Implication: Fleeing the scene of a crash carries significant penalties under Hong Kong law.

The highly anticipated “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” policy officially commenced late Friday, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity as the first permitted private vehicle from Guangdong seamlessly crossed into Hong Kong via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB). According to China Central Television (CCTV), the inaugural crossing occurred precisely at midnight on November 15 at the Zhuhai Port exit of the colossal sea-crossing structure.

This gradual rollout is the result of strategic planning between the Guangdong and Hong Kong SAR governments, designed to integrate the Pearl River Delta region further. The policy allows eligible private vehicles bearing Guangdong license plates to travel to Hong Kong, initially impacting parking facilities and eventually extending to broader urban access.

Phased Implementation of New Travel Rules

The initiation of the cross-border vehicle scheme follows a structured application and implementation timeline. The application process for the scheme opened on November 1, 2025, allowing drivers to register their vehicles for the new privileges.

The implementation is occurring in two distinct phases:

• Phase One (November 15): The initial implementation grants Guangdong-plated vehicles access to designated parking facilities at the Hong Kong Port boundary of the HZMB. This phase primarily caters to those wishing to use Hong Kong as a hub for onward travel or transfer.
• Phase Two (December 23): This broader expansion will permit registered Guangdong vehicles to enter and drive within the Hong Kong urban areas, greatly enhancing convenience for business and personal travel between the mainland and the Special Administrative Region.

Boosting Regional Economic Integration

The “Southbound Travel” initiative is expected to provide a substantial boost to connectivity within the Greater Bay Area (GBA), a region encompassing Hong Kong, Macau, and nine cities in Guangdong Province. By simplifying access and reducing logistical hurdles, the policy encourages greater economic exchange, tourism, and cultural interaction.

Previously, cross-border private vehicle travel was heavily restricted, often requiring complex permits or requiring travelers to switch to public transport or pre-arranged commercial vehicles at the border. This new policy leverages the infrastructure of the HZMB, the world’s longest sea-crossing bridge and tunnel system, which opened in 2018.

Anticipated Impact and Future Outlook

While initially focused on a limited quota of private vehicles, experts suggest that the successful implementation of this phased approach could lead to further liberalization of cross-border movement. This shift aligns with Beijing’s long-term goal of fostering deeper integration within the GBA, transforming it into a cohesive economic powerhouse capable of competing internationally.

For mainland residents, the policy offers unprecedented direct access to Hong Kong’s financial and retail centers. Conversely, Hong Kong residents already benefit from the “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” (Gangshenbei) scheme implemented earlier, which allows them similar access into Guangdong Province.

The success of the forthcoming urban access phase, scheduled for late December, will be closely monitored by both governments to assess traffic impact, regulatory compliance, and overall traveler experience. Authorities emphasize that strict guidelines regarding insurance, vehicle standards, and driver eligibility remain in place to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow across the border. This dual liberalization of vehicle travel signals a new era of mobility and integration across the Pearl River Estuary.

In a thrilling finale witnessed by top government officials, the Hong Kong Men’s Rugby Sevens team clinched the gold medal at the 15th National Games, defeating the Shandong province team 26-19 at the newly opened Kai Tak Main Stadium yesterday evening. This victory marks Hong Kong’s fourth gold medal and the first to be awarded at the highly anticipated new sports complex, igniting widespread patriotic celebrations across the city and among senior government ranks.

The dramatic final saw the Hong Kong squad trail briefly before rallying with exceptional teamwork and formidable resolve, ultimately securing a hard-fought win against their Mainland counterparts. The victory was immediately celebrated by Secretary for Justice Paul Lam, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung, and Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho, who all leveraged social media to share their elation and congratulations.

Triumph Under Pressure at Kai Tak

The atmosphere at the Kai Tak venue was described as electrifying, with fans and government leaders alike captivated by the fast-paced, high-intensity action characteristic of rugby sevens. Secretary Paul Lam, who attended the match with his wife, expressed profound joy at witnessing the men’s triumph, adding that the earlier performance of the women’s team, which finished fifth, also deserved hearty applause.

“As a Hong Kong person, I am clapping until my hands hurt,” Lam stated on his social media account. Beyond the competitive spirit of “friendship first, competition second,” Lam emphasized the broader significance of the Games, highlighting national unity. He urged that amid current critical periods of national development and various internal and external challenges, the spirit of solidarity demonstrated by athletes from different regions must be embraced by the entire nation.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung echoed the sentiment, praising the team’s exceptional dedication. He noted that the team achieved gold with a perfect record throughout the tournament, showcasing the very best of Hong Kong’s athletic grit and teamwork.

Government Leaders Share Excitement

Yeung admitted that the final was a nerve-wracking affair, recalling a moment when Hong Kong fell behind 12-14. “I was a little worried,” he confessed on social media. “But the Sevens team members are truly outstanding. They maximized teamwork, coupled with boundless fighting spirit, finally achieving five consecutive victories for Hong Kong and winning the gold medal.” He described the intensity of the moment as creating goosebumps, indicative of the widespread excitement among spectators.

Yeung also shared a heartwarming anecdote about exchanging supportive towels with several young athletes from the Anhui province team after the match, underscoring the friendly, big-family atmosphere of the National Games.

Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho titled her congratulatory post, “Witnessing the Power of Hong Kong in the Rugby Sevens.” Ho recounted deliberately leaving an earlier engagement to ensure she reached Kai Tak in time for the men’s final. She noted the visible support from other high-ranking officials and colleagues, observing the visceral reactions of the crowd as they cheered the Hong Kong team through what she described as a “rapid, explosive” game.

“Every tackle, pass, and sprint made everyone hold their breath at times, and cheer wildly at others,” Ho wrote. She added that her entire team stood up to cheer in the final minute, witnessing the score finalize at 26-19 and the subsequent eruption of joyful celebration for the champions.

The rugby gold brings Hong Kong’s total medal count at the 15th National Games to five, including four gold and one bronze across sailing, cycling, tennis, swimming, and now rugby. Secretary Yeung remains optimistic that more medals will follow and urged the public to continue their robust support for the Hong Kong delegation.

HONG KONG, October 15 — The Hong Kong men’s Rugby Sevens team secured a dramatic 26-19 victory over Shandong province in the National Games final last night, clinching the territory’s fourth gold medal and, significantly, the first to be won on home soil in the massive new Kai Tak Sports Park stadium. The exhilarating final, marked by a stunning Hong Kong comeback, capped an undefeated run for the local squad, igniting widespread celebrations and drawing effusive praise from senior government officials.

The final match, held before a packed and boisterous crowd at the Kai Tak venue, saw Hong Kong overcome an early deficit, showcasing exceptional teamwork and tenacity. The win elevated Hong Kong’s medal tally in the 15th National Games to five, comprising four gold and one bronze across sailing, cycling, tennis, swimming, and now, rugby.

Officials Hail Team’s ‘Non-Stop Drive’

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Lo Suk-yee, passionately congratulated the athletes following the intense final. Lo described the team’s performance as an exemplary display of collective effort and extraordinary grit.

“The players were simply outstanding, demonstrating teamwork pushed to the absolute limit,” Lo stated, commending their “non-stop drive and perseverance” that resulted in a perfect tournament record.

The Secretary confessed on social media that the intense pressure of the final, which saw Hong Kong fall briefly behind 12-14, had her captivated. “It was far more nerve-wracking than our preliminary match against Shandong,” she wrote, adding that witnessing the late rally provided a thrilling moment that gave her “goosebumps.”

Community Spirit Shines at Kai Tak

The atmosphere at the Kai Tak venue was palpable, reinforcing the significance of hosting major events. Housing Bureau Secretary Winnie Ho was also among the high-ranking officials who rushed to attend the highly anticipated match.

Ho, who titled her reflections “Witnessing the Power of Hong Kong” on social media, described cutting short an earlier engagement just to experience the final in person. She noted the broad support for the team, with numerous principal officials and government permanent secretaries also in attendance, collectively cheering against the formidable Shandong side.

“The pace of rugby is relentless, the power explosive,” Ho wrote, detailing the crowd’s shifting emotions from breathless silence during tackles and sprints to explosive cheers following decisive plays. She recounted how, in the final minute, members of the Housing Bureau contingent could not resist standing up to roar their encouragement as Hong Kong closed out the victory.

A Testament to Resilience and Teamwork

The victory underscored not just the athletic prowess of the Hong Kong team but also the unifying power of sport within the city. For many, the sight of a home team winning the first gold in the newly completed Kai Tak Sports Park—a major infrastructure project—was deeply symbolic.

The gold medalists exemplified resilience, fighting back from adversity both in the final and throughout the high-stakes competition. The result is expected to further boost interest and investment in rugby, a sport with an ardent following in the city.

Secretary Lo expressed confidence that further medals were imminent for the Hong Kong delegation and called on the public to maintain their vigorous support for the athletes competing in the remaining events of the National Games. The next few days will see several Hong Kong athletes participating in medal contention across various disciplines, hoping to build on the momentum created by the Men’s Rugby Sevens historic win.

In a stunning display of grit and teamwork, the Hong Kong men’s rugby sevens team secured a dramatic 26-19 victory over their Shandong counterparts on Thursday evening, clinching the gold medal at the National Games final held at the Kai Tak Main Stadium. This hard-fought triumph marks Hong Kong’s fourth gold medal and the pivotal first gold secured on home soil during the 15th National Games.

The highly anticipated final, which saw Hong Kong overcome an early deficit, provided a pulsating climax to the rugby sevens tournament. The victory cemented an undefeated run for the local squad and sent a wave of exultation across the city.

Thrilling Comeback Ignites Home Crowd

The gold medal match proved significantly tighter than the teams’ initial encounter in the group stages. Hong Kong trailed Shandong at one point, facing a worrying 12-14 scoreline. However, fueled by relentless passion and exceptional skill, the home team rallied, executing strategic plays that ultimately overwhelmed their opponents.

Following the match, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung extended congratulations to the champion athletes. “The rugby sevens team exhibited outstanding performance, maximizing their team cooperation,” Yeung stated, expressing profound pride in the squad’s unyielding spirit and persistence that led them to the gold medal with a perfect record. He noted that the excitement of the final was acutely felt by every spectator at the Kai Tak Sports Park, predicting that the entire Hong Kong community would swell with pride over the team’s stellar achievement.

In a personal social media post, Yeung described the atmosphere at Kai Tak as “super exciting” and “super happy,” admitting his momentary anxiety when the team fell behind. He credited the players’ unity and boundless determination for transforming the challenge into a triumphant, five-match winning streak.

Medal Tally Rises for Hong Kong

The gold medal contributes significantly to the Hong Kong delegation’s growing tally at the 15th National Games. Prior to the rugby final, the city had secured medals across several disciplines, including sailing, cycling, tennis, and swimming. Hong Kong’s current count stands at four gold medals and one bronze, totaling five pieces of hardware.

Secretary Yeung expressed optimism about the momentum, sharing a premonition that more medals were forthcoming. He urged the public to continue their vocal support for the athletes competing in various events across the Games.

Beyond the competitive fervor, Yeung shared a heartwarming post-match moment: exchanging supportive towels with several young athletes from the Anhui delegation, underscoring the camaraderie and familial spirit of the multi-sport event.

Commitment and Future Prospects

The rugby sevens team’s success highlights Hong Kong’s growing strength in fast-paced, high-intensity team sports. Their ability to deliver under significant pressure, especially with the added variable of a home crowd expectation, provides a powerful testament to the dedication of the athletes and coaching staff.

The infrastructure of the new Kai Tak Sports Park, which hosted the final, is expected to continue supporting the development of high-performance athletes. Analysts suggest that this gold medal victory will likely inspire greater investment in grassroots rugby programs, ensuring a robust pipeline of talent capable of competing at elite international levels. The momentum generated by this win is crucial for maintaining public excitement and national team funding as Hong Kong shifts its focus toward upcoming continental and world championships. Citizens are encouraged to follow the remaining progress of the Hong Kong delegation as the National Games continue.

HONG KONG, September 14 — Excitement surged through the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park tonight as Hong Kong’s men’s rugby sevens team faced Shandong in a highly anticipated final, vying for the territory’s first-ever gold medal in the National Games. The championship match took place alongside the women’s final, drawing large crowds eager to witness sporting history made on home ground.

Building a Home Advantage

The atmosphere was electric as local supporters arrived hours early, carrying high hopes that the Hong Kong squad would capitalize on their home advantage. For many fans, the evening represented more than just a rugby match; it was a potent display of local pride and sporting ambition.

“It’s Hong Kong’s home ground, so of course we are going to support them,” stated Mr. Su, who attended the final with his wife and two children. Despite not knowing all the players, the family expressed unwavering confidence in a Hong Kong victory. “We are certain they will win, we have absolute faith!”

His 12-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter, both keen rugby players themselves, shared their father’s enthusiasm, eagerly anticipating the chance to cheer on the team with cries of “Hong Kong, fight on!“

The enthusiasm was palpable even among first-time attendees. Mr. Tam brought his 10-year-old son, a member of his school’s rugby team, specifically for the final.

“We couldn’t miss the final after watching the semi-final last night,” Mr. Tam explained. “Since my son is so passionate about rugby, and his school organized an outing, we made sure to come.”

Unwavering Fan Confidence

The strong performance in the semifinals, where Hong Kong secured a decisive 33-19 victory, fueled the optimism among the supporters. Mr. Tam confidently predicted a significant margin of victory in the final. “They are definitely going to win! Given their performance last night, I expect another big score difference tonight.”

Students also joined the throng of supporters. High schoolers Mr. Lau, Mr. Wong, and Mr. Ho attended the match together, determined to “fully back” the Hong Kong team with their presence. For Mr. Wong, who has previously played rugby, attending the live match was a new experience, driven by the desire to personally encourage the squad.

The event highlights Hong Kong’s growing engagement with high-level sports tournaments and the passionate loyalty of its fan base. Staging the National Games finals at the newly inaugurated Kai Tak Sports Park facility underscores the city’s ability to host major international-standard events.

Implications for Hong Kong Sports

A victory tonight would mark a significant milestone for Hong Kong rugby, potentially serving as a catalyst for greater investment and grassroots participation in the sport across the territory. Regardless of the outcome, the massive turnout and unified spirit demonstrated Hong Kong’s deep commitment to its athletes on the global stage.

The final fixture not only caps an intense tournament but also serves as a crucial moment for both the men’s and women’s seven-a-side teams as they continue to build momentum towards future international competitions. For the fans who packed the stadium, the hope was simple: to celebrate an unprecedented gold medal and solidify their city’s growing sports legacy.

Hong Kong is brace for a dramatic temperature plunge next week as a powerful surge of the northeast monsoon descends upon Guangdong, with forecasts indicating a drastic 12-degree Celsius drop in a single day, according to warnings issued by the Observatory today. The intense cold front, slated to arrive Monday evening, is set to usher in significantly cooler, windy, and exceptionally dry conditions across coastal regions, with inland areas potentially experiencing genuinely cold weather for this time of year.

Rapid Climate Shift Threatens Coastal Areas

The shift marks a sudden end to the recent warmth. The Observatory projects Monday, October 17th, will see a relatively balmy peak of 27°C. However, by Tuesday, October 18th, the mercury is expected to plummet, with the lowest temperature forecast at just 15°C—a staggering decline that experts caution could pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The severe weather is driven not only by the robust northeast monsoon reinforcement but also by an accompanying expansive cloud band. This combination will result in noticeably high winds along the coast and exceptionally dry atmospheric conditions.

Initial forecasts for the middle of next week reveal sustained chills. Wednesday, October 19th, is anticipated to see temperatures barely move, with a predicted high of only 16°C and a low of 13°C, indicating a minimal daily temperature range of just three degrees. Temperatures will remain subdued on Thursday, dropping slightly to a low of 15°C and only reaching a high of 19°C.

Inland Impact and Regional Variance

The temperature disparity across the region will be stark. While the general forecast predicts a maximum high of 27°C and a low of 21°C on Monday, localized forecasts show even greater fluctuations. For instance, the automated regional weather prediction highlights Sheung Shui potentially reaching a high of 29°C on Monday, only to crash to a low of 14°C on Tuesday, emphasizing the extreme variability in the temperature swing.

“This is an unusually sharp and rapid drop,” commented an independent meteorologist specializing in East Asian weather patterns, who requested anonymity as they are not authorized to speak on behalf of the Observatory. “A 12-degree Celsius drop in 24 hours places significant strain on infrastructure and requires residents to adapt quickly to prevent cold-related illnesses.”

Gradual Recovery Expected by Weekend

Relief is tentatively scheduled to arrive towards the end of the week as the monsoon influence is forecast to moderate slightly, allowing daytime temperatures to gradually climb back up along the South China coast.

According to the Observatory’s nine-day outlook, temperatures will begin a slow recovery starting Friday:

• Friday, October 21st: Temperatures ranging from a cool 16°C in the morning to 21°C in the afternoon. Conditions will be mostly cloudy with periods of sunshine and very dry air.
• Saturday, October 22nd: Improving to 17°C to 23°C, with mostly clear skies. Mornings remain cool and afternoons very dry.
• Sunday, October 23rd: Continuing the warming trend, with lows of 18°C and highs of 24°C, marked by clear, dry conditions.

Residents are strongly advised to prepare for the immediate cold snap by layering clothing, using appropriate heating, and taking precautions against the extremely dry conditions, which increase the risk of fire and respiratory issues. Authorities urge the public to monitor official updates closely as monsoon systems can be volatile, potentially leading to further adjustments in the forecast for the coming week.

A Hong Kong senior police inspector was sentenced to nine weeks in prison and fined HK$6,000 on Thursday after being convicted of common assault and indecent assault against a female colleague inside a police station earlier this year.

Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Court Magistrate Eric Yau Kwok-sun found the 56-year-old defendant, Liang Runcheng, guilty on both counts and criticized him for fabricating testimony during the trial. Yau emphasized that the officer’s actions—committing a crime while serving as law enforcement and abusing his senior rank to offend a subordinate—were aggravating factors in the severity of the sentence.

Liang, who served in the police force for 37 years, was granted HK$50,000 bail pending an appeal. As conditions of his release, he must surrender all travel documents, remain in Hong Kong, and report to a police station twice weekly.

Court Rejects Officer’s Account as Unbelievable

The charges stemmed from an incident on February 18, 2025, when Liang assaulted and indecently assaulted a woman identified only as X inside Room 103 of the Hung Hom Police Station. According to the prosecution, Liang had hugged X and touched her buttocks.

During the verdict, Magistrate Yau meticulously dissected the defendant’s testimony, describing it as fundamentally unreliable. Liang had claimed in court that he instructed X to hold her hands palms-up in the air to demonstrate case classification categories, and that she moved her hands in response.

Magistrate Yau noted that this detailed explanation was never mentioned in the defendant’s recorded interview the day after the incident, nor was it raised by the defense during the cross-examination of X. He concluded that Liang had “temporarily inserted” this sequence of events, finding it “impossible to believe.”

The court also dismissed Liang’s attempt to explain away inconsistencies, including his belated claim that he had “forgotten” to mention an action involving counting exhibits with X during his initial statement. Furthermore, the magistrate found it illogical that Liang would need X to physically extend her hands to verbally explain the practicalities of police work, deeming his account “contrary to common sense.”

Abuse of Rank Cited as Key Factor in Sentencing

In the victim’s testimony, X stated she did not immediately report the incident to a superintendent present at the scene due to the suddenness of the event and shock. Magistrate Yau found X’s reaction understandable, rejecting the defense’s argument that her delayed, simplified report to family members was evidence of fabrication. He ruled that the defense had provided “no convincing reason” to suggest X was untruthful.

In sentencing, Magistrate Yau acknowledged Liang’s clean record, good family background, and long service to the police force. However, he strongly emphasized the breach of public trust, stressing that the crime occurred within a police station while the victim was on duty.

The magistrate set a starting point of eight weeks’ imprisonment for the indecent assault conviction. He added two weeks because the defendant, a police officer and an immediate superior to the victim, was guilty of “knowing the law yet breaking the law,” which constitutes a severe abuse of power. Citing Liang’s admission of guilt only after being convicted and the resultant destruction of his career and pension, one week was ultimately deducted, resulting in the final nine-week prison term.

Defense counsel argued in mitigation that Liang was a dedicated officer facing the loss of his long-service pension and a monthly salary of roughly HK$90,000. While the defense admitted Liang could not claim remorse after fighting the charges to conviction, they pleaded with the court to consider his excellent background for a lighter penalty. The court determined that detention was the only appropriate option.

The case underscores the high standard of conduct expected from law enforcement officers and the serious consequences for abusing authority within professional settings.