Robbery suspect claims to have taken 'space oil' upon arrest

A daring daylight robbery occurred in the streets of Mong Kok when a woman's handbag was snatched. Bystanders helped restrain the suspect, who claimed that he was under the influence of "space oil" upon arrest. 

The victim's handbag was snatched by a man at the intersection of Argyle Street and Nathan Road at around 1.54 pm on Tuesday (Jan 14). 

Witnesses noted that the victim had just withdrawn HK$20,000 from an ATM and was followed by the suspect approximately 100 meters before the robbery that happened outside Wai Fung Plaza.

Upon arrival, police found 21 counterfeit banknotes in the suspect's underwear, each valued at HK$500. He was arrested on suspicion of robbery and possession of counterfeit banknotes.

The suspect later claimed to have consumed the drug known as "space oil" (etomidate) and felt unwell. 

The suspect, along with the victim - who sustained hand injuries - was sent to Kwong Wah Hospital for treatment.