Hong Kong High Court dissolves jury in Abby Choi murder trial

The High Court has ordered the dissolution of the jury in the high-profile murder trial of socialite Abby Choi, following a juror's request to withdraw due to health concerns. Acting Judge Keung Yin-fai ruled that the stress of the trial could exacerbate the juror's medical condition.

A new jury selection process is scheduled for this Wednesday to seat nine new members. This development delays the prosecution's opening statements.

The case involves three defendants: Kwong Kong-chi, Kwong Kau, and Kwong Kong-kit. They are charged with the murder of Abby Choi and preventing a lawful burial following her death in February 2023 in a village house in Tai Po. While all three defendants have pleaded not guilty to murder, Kwong Kong-chi and Kwong Kong-kit have pleaded guilty to the charge of preventing a lawful burial, whereas Kwong Kau has denied that charge.