IAS clarifies that ‘knife attacker’ was never under the service’s care

The Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) has clarified that a 41-year-old man arrested after attacking two people with a knife in central Macau has never been evaluated or previously reported to their services.

In response to the Times’ inquiry, IAS stated, “The related person has not received any services provided by the Social Welfare Bureau or subsidized rehabilitation service facilities. The Social Welfare Bureau will keep in contact with the health department, closely monitor the development of the case, and provide follow-up support services as needed.”

The response follows several reports and rumors claiming that the man had either been receiving treatment from IAS for mental illness or had been referred to their services but was never evaluated.

The incident occurred late last month when the 41-year-old unemployed man injured two people in a knife attack at a telecom shop on Rua do Campo.

Following the attack, the Public Security Police Force reported that the suspect, believed to be suffering from mental health issues, was sent to Conde de São Januário Hospital Center for psychiatric assessment.

In a follow-up report, the Judiciary Police stated that, according to a preliminary evaluation, the suspect requires further psychiatric treatment and observation.