Robot's Public Debut Takes a Wrong Turn: Cops Escort Machine After Startling Elderly Woman

Daily Technology

·

13/03/2026

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In a peculiar incident that has captured public attention, a humanoid robot in Macau was escorted away by police after allegedly frightening a 70-year-old woman, leading to her hospitalization. The robot, identified as a Unitree G1 model, was reportedly following the woman when she noticed it, causing her significant distress.

Key Takeaways

A humanoid robot startled an elderly woman in Macau, prompting police intervention.
The woman was hospitalized but later discharged and chose not to file a complaint.
The robot was being used for promotional activities by an education center.

The Incident Unfolds

The unusual encounter occurred near a residential complex in Patane last Thursday evening. According to reports, the woman was walking while looking at her phone when she became aware of the robot following closely behind. A video circulating online captured the woman expressing her fear and frustration, yelling at the robot for startling her and causing her heart to race.

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Police Intervention and Robot's Return

In a scene described as a "silly perp walk," two police officers were seen escorting the robot away. One officer even placed a hand on the robot's shoulder. Authorities later confirmed that the robot belonged to a local education center and was being used for promotional activities. The robot was returned to its 50-year-old operator, who was advised to be more cautious when using the robot in public spaces. Representatives from the education center explained that the robot was simply waiting behind the woman because it couldn't pass, and its lights being on at night startled her.

Aftermath and Public Reaction

While there was no physical contact or injuries reported, the woman felt unwell after the incident and requested to be taken to the hospital. She was examined, treated, and subsequently discharged. She stated she would not be filing a complaint. The event sparked amusement and debate online, with many netizens joking about the "arrest" of the robot and discussing the safety and ethical implications of robots operating in public alongside humans. The Unitree G1 model is increasingly visible in public spaces in China, often used for social media stunts.

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