Hong Kong man accused of stealing tissues, gloves and cash in Tseung Kwan O during coronavirus outbreak refused bail by West Kowloon magistrate
- Chu Ka-ho, 38, appeared in court on Wednesday charged with burglary
- He allegedly stole several boxes of tissues, plastic gloves and cash
A Hong Kong transport worker accused of stealing boxes of tissues and plastic gloves from a market stall has been charged with burglary and sent to jail custody while the investigation continues.
Chu Ka-ho, 38, was at West Kowloon Court on Wednesday facing one count of burglary, an offence punishable by 14 years’ imprisonment.
The alleged offence took place on February 9, at a shop believed to be a vegetable stall on the second floor of Tsui Lam Market at Tsui Lam Estate in Tseung Kwan O.
Court documents revealed the defendant was a resident of the public housing estate.
Prosecutors said Chu entered the shop as a trespasser and stole HK$1,100 worth of property that included six boxes of tissues, two boxes of plastic gloves and HK$800 (US$103) cash.
Chu was not required to enter a plea before Magistrate Peony Wong Nga-yan as prosecutors needed more time to conduct further inquiries and take legal advice.
The man’s application for bail was refused after prosecutors voiced objections. He was sent to jail until his next hearing, scheduled on April 15 at Kwun Tong Court.
Amid the coronavirus outbreak, many Hongkongers have been scrambling to buy toilet rolls and facial tissues, after online rumours sparked fears of a shortage of essential goods. Food and other suppliers have insisted there is no need for panic buying.