China: Car showrooms and service center vandalized at several locations in Hong Kong June 12

Event

Unidentified individuals vandalized three BYD car showrooms and a service center in Hong Kong June 12. The first incident occurred at around 04:00 when an individual reported red paint splashed on the window of a showroom along Chatham Road South in Tsim Sha Tsui District. A car deliberately crashed into another showroom at Hi Yip Street in Yuen Long District around 10 minutes later, damaging the store's metal blind and window. The vehicle was subsequently found abandoned outside the store.

Additionally, authorities were informed of similar paint vandalism incidents at a showroom on Gloucester Road in Wan Chai District at 05:00 and at a service center on Ping Ha Road in Tin Shui Wai District at 07:00. There were no reports of injuries. Police are investigating the incident and the suspects are currently at large. The motive for the attack remains unclear.

Context

Vandalism cases in Hong Kong often stem from various factors, such as grievances with the local government, anti-mainland Chinese sentiment, and socio-political tensions related to pro-democracy movements. While domestic criminal organizations known locally as triads have been associated with illicit activities, no evidence or official statements have established their involvement in the vandalism incidents. The recent acts of vandalism targeting BYD car showrooms and a service center in Hong Kong could be connected to the company's ties with mainland China.