A 32-year-old woman was arrested in northern Hong Kong after a payment dispute led her to brandish a cleaver at restaurant staff and police officers. The incident took place at a beef noodle shop in Sheung Shui. She was subdued by more than a dozen officers.
On January 3, 2026, a 32-year-old woman was arrested at a beef noodle shop in Sheung Shui, northern Hong Kong, following a dispute over payment. Police stated that she attempted to pay for her meal using an e-payment platform on her phone, but the battery was flat, preventing the transaction. The person who reported the incident suggested she charge her phone on-site, but she became agitated and dashed into the kitchen, grabbing a 30cm-long (12-inch) cleaver and a pair of scissors.
A source said the suspect damaged the restaurant owner's phone. Wearing a black surgical mask, she waved the blade in an agitated state, making repeated slashing motions, as captured in a viral video circulating online.
When officers arrived, the woman refused to cooperate and continued to wave the cleaver. A dozen officers subdued her using riot shields and other equipment. She was arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon, assaulting police officers, and criminal damage. No one was injured in the incident, but it has drawn public attention.
The source added: “The person who reported the case had suggested the woman charge her phone on-site, but the arrested person became agitated and dashed into the kitchen for a cleaver and a pair of scissors.” The event highlights how everyday disputes can escalate quickly.
