Man Arrested for adding urine to bottled soft drinks in city supermarkets

Police have arrested a 63-year-old Hong Kong man on suspicion of contaminating bottled soft drinks with urine in various supermarkets across the city. The incident came to light after a nine-year-old boy felt nauseous on July 18 following consumption of a urine-tainted soda purchased from a supermarket on Nathan Road.

The boy’s mother sought medical treatment at Kwong Wah Hospital, where he was discharged the same day. She also reported the case to the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department. Authorities received multiple reports of suspected urine contamination in bottled drinks, in supermarkets located in Sham Shui Po, Mong Kok, and Wan Chai over the past year.

After reviewing extensive CCTV footage, police arrested the unemployed man in Sham Shui Po last Saturday. Investigators seized clothing, shoes, and backpacks worn by the suspect during the alleged acts. Police believe the suspect acted alone and was motivated by revenge following a negative experience at a supermarket, possibly involving an argument.

Seven bottles suspected of urine contamination were recovered, with no other harmful substances detected. Authorities also found a bottle of urine at the suspect’s residence, believed to be the source of the contamination. Residents are urged to report any suspicious products immediately to store officials or the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department.