Hong Kong protests: ambulanceman arrested, suspended over attack on mainland Chinese tourist
- Two held on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, unlawful assembly and conspiracy to steal
- Assailants struck on November 11, one of the most chaotic days of last year’s anti-government unrest
The 28-year-old visitor was beaten by a dozen people for five minutes with bricks, stones, umbrellas, batons, and hammers at about 9.30pm on November 11 at the junction of Argyle Street and Nathan Road, which hardcore protesters had barricaded, police said.
Some protesters also took away the victim’s mobile phone, said police, who also arrested a teenager over the incident. The mainlander was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Yau Ma Tei with injuries to his head and other parts of his body.
The arrested ambulance worker, 28, based at a fire station on Hong Kong Island, and a 19-year-old Form Six pupil were arrested on Monday for wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, unlawful assembly and conspiracy to steal when officers raided two flats in Wong Tai Sin and Tai Po.
Some protective gear such as helmets and elbow pads were seized. Investigators from Kowloon West regional crime unit said the case was under investigation.
A police source said the ambulanceman, who worked for the Fire Services Department, had been suspended. The department was notified about the arrest and said it attached high importance to the discipline and integrity of its personnel.
All suspected lawbreaking or breaches of discipline would be seriously looked into according to established mechanisms, it added.
