A mother in southern China has sparked public outrage after attacking a shop employee and biting a security guard when her young son was caught stealing milk tea.
The altercation began when the woman’s son secretly took a cup of milk tea left at the counter for a customer and drank from it. A female staff member confronted the boy, admonishing him for the theft.
“Who told you to put it there?” the mother retorted, defending her son’s actions.
In response, the employee raised her voice and said, “Is it justified for your kid to steal the milk tea?”
The mother, visibly enraged, charged at the employee, kicking her before pulling her by the hair and dragging her out of the store. She then pushed the worker to the ground and continued the assault.
Bystanders Attempt to Intervene
A passerby intervened in an attempt to stop the mother’s aggression. Meanwhile, another woman witnessing the scene was heard saying, “You are not right to do this.”
The mother ignored the injured employee, who was sitting on the floor, and tried to leave with her two sons. However, a security guard stepped in to prevent her escape, grabbing her arms to restrain her.
“Loosen your hands,” the mother shouted, to which the security guard replied, “I will only let go if you promise not to leave.”
The confrontation escalated when the mother bit the security guard’s arm, prompting him to slap her face in reaction and release his grip.
Incident Takes a Darker Turn
In the closing moments of a video recorded by a bystander, the mother pulled a fruit knife from her bag and brandished it toward the crowd.
The assaulted staff member later sought medical attention and reported the incident to police. Authorities have not disclosed whether the mother was detained, and the case remains under investigation.
Public Backlash Online
The mother has faced a wave of criticism on social media, with many condemning her actions.
“It is so unfortunate for her children to have such a role model,” one user commented. Another praised the security guard, saying, “Bravo! He acted just as I would have.”
Similar Incidents Highlight Ongoing Tensions
Incidents involving disputes between customers and shop employees frequently make headlines in China.
In June, another case in Guangdong drew attention when a woman argued with supermarket staff for two hours over a small sweet her toddler took, claiming it had been offered as a gift. The altercation ended only after the shop owner knelt down, pleading for the woman to leave without paying.
As public debates about customer behavior and accountability persist, the Guangzhou incident underscores the challenges of managing such disputes in retail settings.
Related topics:
