Beer bottle attack on HK tourist sees Japanese man man arrested in Sapporo

A 52-year-old Hong Kong man was assaulted with a beer bottle in a Sapporo hotel restaurant, and suffered a head laceration after an apparent dispute with a stranger; Japanese police arrested a 50-year-old local company executive on suspicion of assault.

The incident occurred early Wednesday in Chuo Ward. According to Sapporo TV reports, the two men did not know each other and may have argued while drinking. 

The suspect admitted striking the victim with the bottle but denied intent to cause injury; police are investigating the motive.

The Chinese Consulate General in Sapporo confirmed a Hong Kong tourist was attacked in the restaurant, and the suspect was detained on the spot. 

The consulate pressed local police to handle the case seriously and protect Chinese citizens’ safety and rights while renewing advice for Chinese nationals to avoid Japan and stay vigilant about local security.

Hong Kong’s Immigration Department learned of the case and immediately liaised with the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong S.A.R and the Sapporo consulate. 

It is providing all possible assistance to the injured man and will continue close follow-up with both offices.