Police on Monday arrested a man who allegedly attempted to attack a magistrate with a knife inside Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts.

The case took place shortly after 10am, when the court was in session.

As proceedings were under way, the 32-year-old suspect allegedly emerged from the public gallery and charged towards the magistrate, while pulling out a knife from his bag.

A police officer intervened quickly and the man never got to the magistrate.

The man then tried to flee the scene but was subdued outside the courtroom. Three officers suffered minor injuries in the process.

The suspect was later arrested on suspicion of attempted wounding.

Superintendent Gar Kam-lam told reporters at a briefing that the man was carrying four knives of 27 to 46cm long, as well as flammable liquids and lighters.

Gar also confirmed the suspect was convicted of indecent assault in 2020, and was awaiting appeal.

"He brought along documents and papers which suggested he was upset with the ruling," Gar said.

Sources suggest Edward Wong was the presiding magistrate for that case. The same magistrate was at the court this morning.

There are currently no security checks at most of the city's Magistrates' Courts.

The judiciary said it will "progressively implement enhanced security measures" from Tuesday, including screenings and extra manpower.

It will also liaise with police on strengthening patrols and ensure the safety of judges, judicial officers, court staff and users.

The Department of Justice strongly condemned the case, saying any threat to judicial officers’ personal safety cannot be tolerated.

The Bar Association, for its part, also condemned the case "in the strongest possible terms".

It said any threat or violent act made with the intent to frighten or pressure judicial officers, or retaliate against their decisions is a serious assault on judicial independence.

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Last updated: 2024-11-04 HKT 20:15