Hong Kong police arrested 11 foreign domestic helpers on suspicion of performing an illegal abortion and involvement with illegal drugs used in the procedure, authorities announced Friday.
The investigation began after a 39-year-old domestic helper collapsed at her employer’s home in Tin Shui Wai on June 2, with visible blood stains on her lower body, according to police. Medical personnel discovered a fetus, estimated to be at least 28 weeks old and showing no signs of life, in a laundry basket beside her bed. A positive pregnancy test kit and suspected abortion pills were also found in her room.
The woman told investigators she purchased the abortion pills from a 32-year-old fellow domestic helper, who allegedly sold similar drugs to others. Police believe the drugs were sourced from overseas.
“Further investigation revealed that this 32-year-old woman had sold suspected abortion drugs to other foreign domestic helpers between May 2024 and May 2025 for abortion purposes,” said Inspector Lam Ho-yin of the Yuen Long District Crime Squad.
In the past two weeks, police arrested nine additional women, aged 30 to 46, across various districts for administering drugs to procure abortions. Of the 11 suspects, five have been charged, five were released on bail pending further investigation, and one remains in custody. Authorities indicated more arrests are possible.
Inspector Lam warned that purchasing or using illegal abortion pills carries severe penalties, including potential imprisonment. He urged individuals considering abortion for health, family, or other reasons to consult registered medical practitioners to understand risks and side effects, cautioning against relying on unverified online information.
“Laws vary among different countries. The police reiterate that supplying or consuming drugs to induce abortion without consultation with a registered medical practitioner in Hong Kong is a criminal offense,” Lam said.
Police also called on employers to encourage their domestic helpers to seek professional medical help if they suspect pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of legal and safe medical guidance.
