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Pair who scuffled on Cathay Japan-Hong Kong flight given conditional discharge
Hong Kong court releases Tsui Zi-kew, 32, and Zhang Xinyan, 60, on two-year bind-over order
West Kowloon Court on Wednesday released saleswoman Tsui Zi-kew, 32, and housewife Zhang Xinyan, 60, on a two-year bind-over order over their scuffle on a flight from Sapporo in Japan to Hong Kong on January 6.
The defendants will be fined HK$1,500 (US$193) if they fail to maintain good behaviour and keep the peace during the period and risk heavier punishment for any further offences.
Tsui and Zhang, who was travelling with her three-year-old granddaughter, did not know each other before boarding flight CX581.
The court heard the child suddenly started crying shortly after the plane touched down at Hong Kong International Airport at 9.40pm.
Tsui, who was sitting behind Zhang, threw a tantrum after hearing the child crying and tossed two bottles at the 60-year-old, triggering a heated exchange between the two. The flight manager attempted to separate the pair but in vain.
The altercation soon escalated, with Tsui throwing a blanket at Zhang and the latter screaming. After another blanket hit her on the chest, Zhang retaliated by throwing a cushion at the saleswoman.
After they were arrested by police, Tsui denied causing the commotion and accused Zhang of attacking her first, while the latter admitted throwing a cushion in response to Tsui’s provocation. Both remained silent upon further questioning by police.
They were subsequently charged with unruly behaviour under the Aviation Security Ordinance.
Prosecutors on Wednesday applied to amend the charges to common assault, punishable by the Offences against the Person Ordinance, before stating they had agreed to drop them provided that the defendants each enter into recognisance.
Acting principal magistrate Andy Cheng Lim-chi ordered the pair to each pay HK$500 towards the costs of the hearing.
From geek to chic: Japan PM stuns women’s fashion show with trendy new look
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s unexpected fashion statement, in support of ‘cool’ Japan, drew cheers from a mostly young female audience
Ishiba arrived at the Tokyo Girls Collection on Saturday in a double-breasted blazer, denim trousers, white sneakers and stylish black-rimmed glasses. The surprise change of attire received a big cheer of approval from other guests, performers and the audience.
The fashion show, which was held at Tokyo’s National Yoyogi Stadium First Gymnasium, is billed as one of Japan’s most prestigious fashion events.
Ishiba, whose key policy goals include revitalisation and making “a joyful Japan”, said he supports efforts towards making a “cute, energetic and cool” Japan and that he hopes such events to become even more lively across the country and even spread outside the country.
Speaking to reporters later in his usual business suit, Ishiba said it was his first time speaking to a mostly young female audience at a fashion show.
“I was extremely nervous,” he said, adding he had been comforted by the support of the comical mascot with a tail.
Ishiba is believed to be the first Japanese prime minister to appear in the Tokyo Girls Collection, which is marking its 20th anniversary.
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