Infrequent yet unforgettable: Hong Kong’s rare cases of police opening fire on duty

Hong Kong police officers rarely fire their guns, but when they do, it grips the city’s attention.

On Thursday, officers shot dead a man who had taken a woman hostage while brandishing a 30cm knife at a shopping centre in Tuen Mun.
Under police guidelines, officers may open fire to protect anyone – including themselves – from death or serious injury. They may also use lethal force against anyone believed to have committed a serious or violent crime and who is attempting to evade arrest.

Firearms may also be used to quell social unrest if no less deadly means are available.

In recent years, police officers have discharged their weapons on only a handful of occasions, mostly when confronting armed suspects or individuals acting violently.

The Post breaks down some of the most notable instances.

1. 2024 Standoff in North Point

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