HK$59 million gold heist in Hung Hom: 13 arrested, all stolen gold recovered

Thirteen people have been arrested in connection with a HK$59 million gold theft at a Hung Hom industrial building, with all stolen gold recovered. The prime suspect remains at large while his wife has been arrested for allegedly assisting his hiding.

Kowloon West Crime Unit officers confirmed the arrests following a two-day operation across multiple Hong Kong districts. The heist occurred early Wednesday when 17 individuals broke into a gold workshop in Hok Yuen Street East, confining three staff members in a room before stealing approximately 65 kilograms of gold bars, bricks, and powder.

Police believe the incident stemmed from a business dispute between the prime suspect and the workshop owner, former business partners. The suspect allegedly became resentful after the owner established a new successful company with another partner, additionally suspecting financial misconduct.

Among the 13 arrested—12 men and one woman—the male suspects include construction workers, cleaners, and unemployed individuals, some with triad backgrounds. The 32-year-old female suspect, the prime suspect's wife, was arrested for allegedly concealing her husband's whereabouts and has been released on bail pending further investigation.

Police confirmed that while one individual led the gold retrieval during the incident, the others primarily provided intimidation. Authorities continue searching for the prime suspect and several other accomplices who remain at large. Initially reported missing HK$20,000 in cash was later confirmed untouched upon further investigation.

The robbery occurred around 5:30am Wednesday when the assailants locked six staff members out of the workshop using chains before fleeing. Employees notified the workshop owner approximately six hours later, with police receiving the report at 11am. The case is being investigated as theft.