Hong Kong police arrest parents over viral video of girl carrying beer

Hong Kong police have arrested the parents of a 10-year-old girl in Tuen Mun on suspicion of child abuse, specifically “ill-treatment or neglect by those in charge of a child or young person.” The arrests followed a viral video showing the girl struggling to carry approximately 16 to 20 cans of beer in plastic bags while walking uphill. In the footage, the girl’s father was seen berating her, calling her a “useless person,” after passers-by criticized the situation.

The parents claimed the incident was a misunderstanding and that they were attempting to “train her muscles.” They stated the girl’s schoolbag broke because it was being used to carry the heavy beer cans. The family, who reportedly relies on Comprehensive Social Security Assistance, faces scrutiny regarding their ability to care for their three children.

The girl’s school, Lutheran Zeng Cheng Chiu Lam School, issued a statement confirming that teachers and social workers are providing support and counseling to the student. The Social Welfare Department is also involved, arranging a multi-disciplinary meeting to assess the children’s needs and develop a follow-up plan.