MTR Corp reports mass fare evasion after video goes viral, vows more patrols

Hong Kong’s rail operator has reported a suspected mass fare evasion incident to police after online footage showed over 30 people tailgating through barriers at Tsim Sha Tsui station without paying the correct fare, with no station staff seen intervening.

A viral video last week appeared to show a woman, believed to be a tour guide, tap her card at an exit gate in Tsim Sha Tsui station. As the gates opened, several men and women following her filed through in single file without tapping their own cards, causing the gate indicator to flash red repeatedly.

Multiple groups used the same method, with an estimated 30 or more people exiting without paying. In one instance, as many as six people trailed behind a single card tap to leave the station fare-free. No MTR staff were seen intervening throughout.

The incident sparked outrage on social media, with users expressing shock at the apparent lack of staff response to the fare evasion.

The MTR Corporation said it strongly condemned the behaviour, had reported the matter to police, and would step up station patrols and remain vigilant.

It said the incident occurred at around 11pm on August 23, when a passenger exited through the turnstiles at Tsim Sha Tsui station without paying the correct fare.