Barefoot suspect escapes during hospital X-ray, caught in Yuen Long

A 35-year-old man suspected of multiple robberies and thefts across Hong Kong escaped during a hospital X-ray on Friday morning (Dec 19) and was recaptured later that afternoon in Yuen Long.

The suspect, linked to 10 robbery and theft cases citywide with stolen property valued at over HK$50,000, had initially been arrested in Tsuen Wan on Wednesday (Dec 17).

He was being escorted by two male officers from the Wong Tai Sin Police District, each with around 20 years of service, to Queen Elizabeth Hospital at 11am for treatment. While returning from the X-ray, he allegedly broke free in the lobby of Block C.

The suspect, wearing a white top, patient pants, and no shoes, then fled via the staircase and parking area toward Block S and Gascoigne Road.

CCTV footage showed the suspect running barefoot, leaving behind a wheelchair, a pair of slippers, and a piece of clothing. Police launched a large-scale search of the hospital, nearby buildings, and surrounding hills before recapturing him later in Yuen Long.