Nursing student at top private hospital in Hong Kong arrested over multiple thefts

A nursing student has been arrested and expelled from a school operated by a top private hospital in Hong Kong after he allegedly stole cash and credit cards from patients and colleagues in a case involving more than HK$116,000 (US$14,927).

Police received five reports between September 19 and this past Saturday over thefts at Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital in Happy Valley.

Officers arrested the 27-year-old suspect, who was a student at the nursing school run by the hospital, on Wednesday.

Police suspected he stole cash, credit cards and phones from five patients in hospital wards. He also allegedly used the stolen cards to purchase electronic items from various shops, which he then sold for profit, according to a force spokesman.

The amount involved exceeded HK$116,000.

Officers found the clothes the suspect wore during the time of the alleged thefts and the cards during a search of his home.