3rd October 2023 – (Hong Kong) A heart-wrenching incident unfolded last night as a foreign domestic helper in Hong Kong, accompanied by her 13-year-old West Highland White Terrier named Daniel, went shopping at a convenience store in the Chun Yeung Estate, Fo Tan. The helper, intending to leave the pet outside the store temporarily, placed Daniel’s leash by the entrance. However, within a mere four minutes of her departure, both the dog and its leash vanished without a trace, leaving the helper in a state of panic. She immediately contacted the 33-year-old owner of the dog, who rushed to the scene to join the search. Despite their exhaustive efforts, the pair was unable to locate Daniel, prompting them to report the incident to the authorities. They also approached nearby shopkeepers for information, receiving an outpouring of sympathy and assistance. Several shop owners shared surveillance footage, captured by their security cameras, in an attempt to uncover the truth behind the dog’s disappearance.
The video footage revealed a disturbing sequence of events. Shortly after the helper entered the convenience store, a suspicious figure dressed in black emerged from the same establishment. The individual loitered outside the store for some time, seemingly noticing the unattended leash. After approximately three minutes of observation, the perpetrator callously snatched both the dog and its leash before making a hasty retreat towards the Chun Yeung Estate public transportation interchange.
Daniel, weighing approximately 7 to 8 kilograms, suffers from various health conditions, including heart disease, skin problems, and bone degeneration. The dog requires medication, specialized food, and weekly baths using medicated shampoo. The owner has cared for Daniel since the day of its birth, fostering a deep bond between them. Devastated by the theft, the owner took to social media platforms and pet-focused groups, urging the public to provide any relevant information and appealing for the swift return of her beloved companion. After preliminary investigations, the law enforcement authorities have classified the case as a “theft,” but no arrests have been made thus far.