British National Detained Following Airport Check-In Machine Destruction
A 35-year-old British man has been arrested at Hong Kong International Airport after an explosive outburst that resulted in significant damage to self-service check-in equipment. The incident, which unfolded in the departure area, saw the individual allegedly kick and lash out at approximately ten check-in machines before escalating his destructive behavior.
Violent Outburst Captured on Camera
Shocking footage from the scene shows the bald-headed man in a state of extreme agitation, violently attacking the airport's automated check-in kiosks. Witnesses reported that passengers cowered in fear as the situation escalated. The man then seized a queue divider, raising it above his head before bringing it crashing down on the already damaged machines, completing what observers described as a textbook airline freakout.
Airport security personnel and authority staff immediately responded to the scene, warning the individual to cease his vandalism before police were called. Officers successfully restrained the man at an airport bus stop, where he was taken into custody.
Additional Charges for Medication Possession
During the arrest, authorities allegedly discovered the British national was carrying four Viagra pills without a valid prescription. In Hong Kong, possession of Viagra without proper medical authorization is illegal and classified as possession of a Part 1 Poison under local regulations. The maximum penalties for such offenses include up to two years imprisonment and fines reaching HK$100,000 (approximately £10,000).
The man now faces charges of criminal damage alongside the drug possession allegations. Officials have confirmed he arrived at the airport in an emotionally unstable state before attempting to purchase a plane ticket on Monday. His exact motives remain under active investigation, and authorities have declined to disclose his identity while inquiries continue.
Airport Operations Maintained Despite Disruption
An Airport Authority spokesperson addressed the incident, stating: "Airport Authority personnel and airport security immediately arrived at the scene, warned the man to stop further vandalism, and called the police. Officers then arrested him and are continuing their investigation."
The spokesperson added: "The Airport Authority has dispatched staff to handle the situation and arranged backup smart check-in kiosks. Passengers may also use other kiosks or check in manually at airline counters, and airport operations remain unaffected."
Local media reports indicate the British national arrived in Hong Kong in November on a six-month visa. This airport incident follows closely on the heels of another disruptive aviation event, where a Jet2 flight from Antalya, Turkey to Manchester, England was forced to divert to Belgium due to passenger altercations involving racist remarks and physical confrontations at 30,000 feet.
