HK govt raises concern with Japan after tourist attacked in Sapporo

The Hong Kong government has expressed concern to Japan's Consul-General in Hong Kong after a Hong Kong resident was attacked at a restaurant in Sapporo early on Wednesday, urging Japanese authorities to ensure the safety of Hong Kong travellers.

According to the Chinese Consulate-General in Sapporo, the Hong Kong resident was hit on the head with a beer bottle at a restaurant in the Hokkaido city during the early hours of February 18. Japanese police arrested a local suspect at the scene.

The Immigration Department immediately contacted the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong and the consulate in Sapporo to follow up on the case and provide assistance according to the victim's wishes.

The consulate said it has lodged representations with local police, demanding they handle the case according to law, seriously pursue the perpetrator's responsibility, and effectively protect the safety and legitimate rights of Chinese citizens.

The Hong Kong government reminded residents travelling to Japan to attend to personal safety. Those in need of assistance can contact the Immigration Department's 24-hour hotline at (852) 1868 or through other dedicated channels.