A resident of a Sai Wan He housing estate has raised security concerns after a suspicious woman allegedly attempted to gain entry to a home by posing as a delivery driver. The incident, shared in a local community group, has prompted warnings among neighbors about potential scouting tactics used by criminals to identify vacant properties.
Suspicious Encounter at Residential Unit
The resident reported that even as at home last Sunday, they heard the doorbell ring several times. Before the resident could reach the door, the property’s iron gate—which had been left unlocked by the resident’s child—was pulled open, followed by forceful knocking on the wooden door.
Upon opening the door, the resident encountered a middle-aged woman carrying a large, transparent plastic bag containing McDonald’s. The resident noted that there was no receipt
attached to the bag.
Contradictory Claims and Rapid Exit
When questioned, the woman initially provided the resident’s own address. She then quickly changed her story, claiming the delivery was intended for a unit two floors above. The resident, who is familiar with those neighbors, knew they were out for the day and had no one at home.
Under further questioning, the woman changed her claim once more, stating she was a friend of the neighbors upstairs and had simply touched the wrong door
. The resident reported that the woman appeared timid and fled the scene quickly after being confronted.
Community Alarm and ‘Scouting’ Fears
The resident later confirmed with the neighbors two floors above that they had not ordered food nor had any friends visiting. This led the resident to believe the woman was obviously pretending to deliver food
to check for empty homes.
Netizens reacting to the post on April 17 suggested the incident was a form of scouting
. Some community members warned that others have been seen pretending to view apartments to keep a close watch on building entrances.
In response to the event, the resident notified building security. Other residents suggested that management offices should maintain detailed records of non-resident entries to make such incidents easier to investigate.
Potential Next Steps
Given the community’s reaction, residents may increase their vigilance regarding unlocked gates and unfamiliar visitors. Building management could potentially face calls to tighten entry requirements for delivery personnel or enhance the monitoring of non-resident traffic in the estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the suspicious woman carrying?
She was carrying a large transparent plastic bag containing McDonald’s, which the resident noted had no receipt attached to it.
Why did the resident suspect the woman was not a real delivery driver?
The resident noted the woman pulled open the iron gate and knocked forcefully, gave contradictory addresses, and claimed to be a friend of neighbors who the resident knew were not at home.
What precautions did netizens suggest?
Netizens suggested that residents look out for one another, especially during long holidays, and recommended that security and management offices record information on non-residents entering the building.
Do you believe that building management should implement stricter verification for delivery drivers entering residential floors?
