Renovation worker jailed for attempted prison escape during Typhoon Wipha

A 43-year-old renovation worker was sentenced to 11 months in prison by the Eastern Magistrates’ Court for attempting to escape from a rehabilitation center during a typhoon, alongside other charges including theft and drug possession, following a chaotic incident that underscored the seriousness of defying custodial rules.

On July 20, as Typhoon Wipha battered Hong Kong under a No. 10 hurricane signal, Choi Ching-wang tried to flee the Hei Ling Chau Addiction Treatment Centre alongside another inmate. 

The attempt was quickly thwarted by correctional officers, who subdued him after a brief struggle. 

Choi, who admitted to attempting to escape lawful custody, also faced charges for stealing, possessing dangerous drugs, holding drug paraphernalia, and resisting police. 

The court heard that his drug-related charges involved a notable but not excessive quantity of drugs, and while Choi no longer showed signs of addiction, his past drug-related record and familiarity with rehabilitation underscored the gravity of his actions.

The magistrate described the escape attempt as serious and reckless, noting that Choi’s plan to flee the isolated island facility was poorly thought out and dangerous, especially given the extreme weather conditions. 

The court also highlighted the disorder caused during his resistance to arrest, which required multiple officers to intervene, emphasizing the need to protect frontline law enforcement. 

While Choi’s defense argued he acted impulsively out of concern for his girlfriend, who had reportedly been in an accident in the Philippines, the court questioned the logic of his actions, pointing out inconsistencies in his financial claims and motives.

The escape charge carrying a four-month term, will be served in addition to the theft charge.