Teen arrested at HK airport over pepper spray and baton in carry-on

A 17-year-old local girl was arrested at Hong Kong International Airport after pepper spray and an expandable baton were found in her carry-on luggage while she was preparing to board a flight to the United States, police said.

Airport police received a report on January 4 after security staff discovered suspected prohibited items during a screening of outbound passengers. The items were found in a carry-on bag belonging to the teenager, who was scheduled to depart for the United States.

Officers arrived at the scene and arrested the girl on suspicion of violating the Firearms and Ammunition Ordinance and the Aviation Security Ordinance. Police said the carry-on bag was found to contain suspected pepper spray and a suspected expandable baton.

The teenager was later released on bail pending further investigation. The case has been handed over to the police’s Airport District investigators for follow-up.

Police noted that the incident marks the fourth similar case recorded within a 12-day period since December 24.

Authorities said some travelers carry prohibited items such as expandable batons or pepper spray when departing Hong Kong for various reasons. However, under Hong Kong law, carrying prohibited items on board an aircraft — whether in carry-on or checked baggage — is illegal. Offenders face a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment upon conviction.