Hong Kong prosecutors told a court on Wednesday that a family dispute over money was the primary motive behind the 2023 murder and dismemberment of local socialite Abby Choi. The trial began for her former husband Alex Kwong, his brother Anthony Kwong, and their father Kwong Kau, all of whom have pleaded not guilty.
Financial conflict at the heart of the case
In her opening remarks, prosecutor Charlotte Draycott highlighted the stark wealth gap between Choi and the Kwong family. She said arguments over finances and Choi’s plan to sell a luxury apartment triggered a plot to kill her. “Money seems to be the root cause of this case,” Draycott told the eight‑man, one‑woman jury.
Choi, a mother of four, had continued to support the Kwongs financially after her divorce, providing a HK$60 million (about $7.6 million) apartment in the name of her former father‑in‑law, Kwong Kau, who is a retired police sergeant. The relationship soured in 2022 when Choi attempted to sell the renovated flat and relocate the Kwongs farther from downtown so her children could attend school.
Alleged plot and accusations
According to Draycott, Kwong Kau grew hostile, allegedly attempting to assault Choi and eventually disowning her. Choi reportedly called him a “crook” and “ungrateful,” fearing the Kwongs would turn her children against her. The prosecutor said Kwong Kau plotted the murder, believing that if Choi died the apartment would remain in his name.
She alleged that Kwong Kau coordinated the plan with his two sons, Alex and Anthony, each playing a role in the killing and disposal of the body. The prosecution presented evidence that body parts were found in a Tai Po district house three days after Choi was reported missing on February 21, 2023, along with a meat slicer, an electric saw, and clothing.
Trial details and background
The jury learned that Choi was born on Hainan Island and moved to Hong Kong at age five. She met Alex Kwong while still in school and married him in 2014. During their marriage, Alex Kwong reportedly had no employment and relied on Choi’s family for support.
The trial is expected to last at least eight weeks, with further hearings scheduled for Friday.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
