Mainland man held over Mong Kok e-bike hit-and-run
HK01 · 6 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
Police said a 10-year-old local boy was injured after being hit by an electric bicycle near Prince Edward Road West in Mong Kok on 11 September, and the rider left without stopping. After reviewing extensive CCTV footage, officers arrested a 35-year-old mainland Chinese man on the afternoon of 12 September near Argyle Street and Portland Street, and seized the suspected electric bicycle. The man is being held on six traffic-related allegations, including dangerous driving and failing to stop after an accident. Police also used the case to reiterate that electric mobility devices are not suitable for use on roads, pavements or cycle tracks in Hong Kong.
Key Points
- The crash was reported on 11 September on Sai Yee Street near Prince Edward Road West in Mong Kok, where an electric bicycle struck a 10-year-old local boy.
- am730 reported the child suffered abrasions to his hands and legs, while other outlets said only that the boy was injured in the collision.
- Police said West Kowloon traffic investigators and task force officers reviewed a large volume of CCTV footage and quickly identified the suspected rider.
- Officers arrested a 35-year-old mainland Chinese man, described by some outlets as a two-way permit holder, near Argyle Street and Portland Street on 12 September.
- He was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving without a licence, no third-party insurance, and riding without an approved helmet.
Why It Matters
The case underlines the legal and financial risks tied to electric bicycles in urban Hong Kong, where police say such devices are illegal to use on roads and are also unsuitable for pavements and cycle tracks. Police further warned that because electric bicycles used in the city are not covered by third-party insurance, crash victims may be unable to pursue compensation from an insurer.