Anita Mui’s Ashes Go Missing From Hong Kong Monastery as Police Investigate

The ashes of late Hong Kong music superstar Anita Mui have gone missing from a monastery, prompting a police investigation, authorities said on Tuesday. Mui, widely known as the “Madonna of Asia”, died in 2003 at the age of 40 after battling cervical cancer.

Mui’s family reported the disappearance to police in July after a fan noticed that the urn containing her ashes was no longer in its designated place. The family initially kept the matter private but later raised concerns publicly over what they described as a lack of progress in the investigation.

In a statement released on Saturday, which coincided with what would have been Mui’s birthday, the family said the delay had caused them “tremendous distress and emotional anguish”. The announcement sparked an emotional response from fans, many of whom expressed sadness and anger on social media.

Hong Kong police told Agence France-Presse on Tuesday that the case had been referred to the Regional Crime Unit of New Territories South for further investigation. Authorities confirmed that no arrests had been made and said they would continue working with the complainant and other relevant parties.

Mui was one of the most influential performers in Cantopop, a music genre performed in Cantonese. Her distinctive voice, striking stage style and energetic performances helped her build a large following, while her songs featured in the soundtracks of numerous films and television productions.

During her peak in the 1980s, Mui performed for 28 consecutive nights to sold-out audiences, setting a Hong Kong record at the time. Her popularity continued until her death, and she remains a significant figure in the city’s entertainment history.

The disappearance has also drawn attention because a similar case involved the ashes of Hong Kong martial arts star and director Lau Kar-leung. His ashes reportedly went missing last year, and his family was said to have been subjected to blackmail. The remains were recovered several months later.

Police have not disclosed who may be responsible for the disappearance of Mui’s ashes or explained how the urn went missing. The investigation remains ongoing as the family and fans await further developments.