By KHT Staff
KAOHSIUNG — A tense scene unfolded in Kaohsiung early Monday when a heavily intoxicated man allegedly brandished a kitchen cleaver at a betel nut stand after being refused credit for an NT$100 purchase.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight on January 13 on Jianguo Road, according to Sanmin Second Precinct police. Officers said they received a report of a man threatening staff with a knife and immediately dispatched patrol units from the Minzu Police Station.
Upon arrival, police found a 50-year-old man surnamed Ko holding a cleaver while shouting at shop employees. Officers ordered him to drop the weapon and moved in simultaneously to restrain and arrest him. No one was injured during the confrontation.
Police later confirmed Ko was a regular customer at the betel nut stand. He had gone to the shop while drunk and attempted to buy items on credit for NT$100. When the shop owner refused, Ko allegedly became enraged and pulled out the cleaver he was carrying.
Although the shop owner declined to press charges, police still transferred the case to the Kaohsiung District Prosecutors’ Office. Ko is being investigated on suspicion of intimidation for financial gain under the Criminal Code.
In addition, police said Ko violated Article 63, Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 1 of the Social Order Maintenance Act by carrying a dangerous weapon without a legitimate reason. The case will be referred to the Kaohsiung District Court summary tribunal for further ruling.
Police-released footage from the scene shows officers surrounding and subduing the suspect.
