Authorities in Hong Kong are urging residents to return cash picked up from the street after a woman was captured on video scattering wads of banknotes from the balcony of a high-rise apartment. 

Reports noted the incident occurred in Shantou, Guangdong province on Tuesday when large quantities of HK$1,000 started flying on the street, prompting bystanders to scramble for the cash. 

According to Hong Kong-based newspaper The Standard, claims suggested that the amount of money dispersed by the woman could be up to HK$2 million ($260,000).

A local police stated that the matter “has been handled,” urging residents to hand over any recovered cash.

It was also reported that Zhuchi subdistrict office later issued a statement that the woman, who hasn’t been identified by name, was experiencing an emotional breakdown over a family member’s serious illness during the episode. 

The woman was reportedly stabilised after being comforted. 

Additionally, reports stated that property management staff eventually confirmed that some residents had returned the cash they found, which were verified as genuine.

The incident has generated different reactions on social media, with many expressing their sympathy towards the woman over her mental health, while some jokingly wished they had been there to pick up the cash. 

“I wish I’m there, I would’ve packed the money and given it to them back,” an Instagram user @tmottyyy_ commented. 

Another user @tabithaharperwhite said “This is a wild story! Hope everyone involved is okay.”

Meanwhile, @jhons_01 urged caution when angry, stating, “Don’t make decisions when you’re angry because it will make you stupid and lose out in the future, this one is the example. Be smart.”