World

Knife-wielding man shot dead by police after taking hostage in Hong Kong mall

A 34-year-old local man was fatally shot by police after threatening shoppers with a knife and taking a woman hostage, prompting a tense standoff in a Hong Kong shopping centre

Updated 9 months ago · Published on 16 Jan 2026 10:58AM

Knife-wielding man shot dead by police after taking hostage in Hong Kong mall
A search of the man’s belongings uncovered a package believed to contain drugs (Photo from SCMP) - January 16, 2026

POLICE shot and killed a man in Hong Kong who threatened visitors with a knife in a Hong Kong shopping mall, sparking panic among the public yesterday evening.

AFP reported on Friday that the armed attack unfolded at around 7pm local time when the 34-year-old suspect entered a restaurant, seized a knife, and advanced towards members of the public.

Authorities said the man ignored repeated police orders to surrender after taking a woman hostage.

“The police were forced to fire several shots to protect the victim,” said officials. The suspect collapsed at the scene and was pronounced dead.

A search of the man’s belongings uncovered a package believed to contain drugs. Early reports indicate the suspect, a local resident, had a history of mental illness, according to family members.

Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the motive behind the attack and are examining whether other factors may have contributed to the violent incident.

The swift police intervention prevented further casualties and highlighted concerns over public safety in crowded urban spaces. - January 16, 2026

Spotlight

Malaysia

Haze: MOH issues strict guidelines to ensure public health

Cocaine in shoes: Invited on vacation to Japan, only to end up as drug mules

Malaysia

PDRM awaits Philippine confirmation on alleged politician’s role in 521kg drug seizure

Malaysia

Elderly man dies after being beaten repeatedly

Malaysia

Preliminary report on helicopter crash in Long Lellang released; probe ongoing

Malaysia

‘Am I not the Tuanku?’ Tuanku Muhriz tells off Ismail Lasim (video)

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Donating to Najib: ‘One of the most foolish things I have seen’ – UM student

Malaysia

AKPS officer was seeking divorce before alleged killing, says brother

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

You may be interested

World

Indonesia records 277,075 respiratory infections as forest fires fuel haze crisis

World

Five Thai police officers wounded in attack on security compound in Yala

World

Four reported dead in Oregon elementary school shooting, suspect killed

World

Trump says Iran strike was postponed after military plans leaked to media

World

Ukraine accuses US of aiding Russia over missile warnings and Starlink restrictions

World

Indonesia approves foreign help to battle fires fuelling regional haze

World

Trump: US in talks with Russia, China on nuclear disarmament

World

Climate change could displace 40.5 million South Asians by 2050, UN warns