Murdered girl's mother urges Chan Tong-kai to turn himself in to Taiwan

A Hong Kong murder suspect wanted in Taiwan, should surrender soon, the victim's mother says, warning him of the long arm of the law.

Chan Tong-kai, 20, is wanted by Taiwan authorities for allegedly killing his pregnant girlfriend Poon Hiu-wing during a holiday in Taiwan in February 2018.

His case triggered a debate on extradition and led to mass civil unrest following attempts to rush through amendments to the law.

He fled to Hong Kong after the alleged incident and never went back, despite promises that he will turn himself in to Taiwan authorities. 

Poon's mother spoke for the first time and said Chan should own up to his responsibilities.

“There is no point for stalling any longer,” she added.

A Hong Kong priest, Reverend Peter Koon, had said he will go to Taiwan as soon as the coronavirus travel restrictions are lifted to discuss details of Chan’s surrender.

Koon said Chan had always intended to turn himself in given that Chan had admitted the killing, but the plan was delayed due to the virus pandemic. Taiwan has imposed border restrictions since March and only allows the entry of business travelers.

Koon said he would fly to Taiwan with lawyers when Taiwan travel becomes possible.

Chiu Chui-cheng, spokesman for Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council, said Thursday the key factors in the case were the Hong Kong government’s sense of responsibility and whether Chan truly wishes to surrender.

He also mentioned that the Criminal Investigation Bureau of Taiwan’s National Police Agency has set up a single window for communication with Hong Kong police regarding the case.