25th December 2024 – (Hong Kong) A volunteer from the Love and Care Association, Paul Choi, was violently attacked while distributing vegetables to residents at Kwong Yuen Shopping Centre in Sha Tin on 8th December. The incident occurred at approximately 1.32pm when two masked men, dressed in black, assaulted Choi with a stick before fleeing towards a nearby bus stop.
Choi, who is the founder and president of the association, suffered head injuries and was subsequently taken to Prince of Wales Hospital for treatment. Local authorities have confirmed that a 41-year-old man named Lai has been arrested in connection with the attack. Investigations revealed that Lai has ties to the Wo Shing Wo triad.
The attack has drawn attention to the challenges faced by community volunteers in Hong Kong, particularly those who engage in altruistic activities aimed at supporting vulnerable populations. Choi, who regularly distributes food to the elderly and underprivileged, expressed his commitment to spreading positivity despite the violence he encountered.
In response to the incident, additional CCTV cameras have been installed in public areas of Kwong Yuen to enhance security and deter future attacks. The police have classified the incident as an assault, and the case is being handled by the Anti-Triad Unit of the Sha Tin Police District.
Choi’s wife noted that volunteers and elderly residents present during the attack intervened, helping to halt the assault and chase the perpetrators away. Choi stated he was struck multiple times but remained determined to continue his work in the community, emphasising the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
