Author: Satoshi Nakamoto

HONG KONG — Police arrested a local man Tuesday evening in West Kowloon after a routine patrol stop yielded a cache of suspected narcotics with an estimated street value of HK$57,500. Officers from the West Kowloon Emergency Unit intercepted a suspicious vehicle on Shanghai Street around 8:49 p.m., leading to the discovery of multiple illicit substances on the 34-year-old driver and inside the car.

The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 31.5 grams of suspected cocaine, 22.7 grams of suspected ketamine, and 3.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice.” Following preliminary inquiries, authorities placed the man, identified only by his surname, Choi, under arrest on suspicion of trafficking in dangerous drugs. He is currently being held for questioning as the investigation continues.

The case has been transferred to the Yau Tsim District Investigation Team 9 for full follow-up. This arrest underscores ongoing efforts by the Hong Kong Police Force to disrupt local drug distribution networks operating within the dense urban corridors of Kowloon.

Detectives are likely examining the quantity and variety of the seized drugs to determine the scope of the suspected trafficking operation. The combination of cocaine, ketamine, and methamphetamine suggests the suspect may have been involved in supplying various segments of the recreational drug market.

Severe Penalties for Drug Trafficking

The police emphasized the stringent legal framework governing drug offenses in the territory. Trafficking in dangerous drugs is classified as a grave offense under Hong Kong law. Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap. 134), individuals convicted of trafficking face severe penalties.

“We urge the public not to violate the law,” a police representative stated. “Anyone found guilty of trafficking dangerous drugs can be sentenced to a maximum fine of five million Hong Kong dollars and life imprisonment.”

This recent seizure highlights the continuous police presence targeting visible criminal activities in high-traffic commercial and residential districts like West Kowloon. Authorities often utilize routine vehicle stops and visible patrols as effective methods to detect and deter mid-level drug distribution and other street crime.

The successful apprehension serves as a reminder of the potentially devastating consequences associated with drug trafficking, both for the individuals involved and the broader community seeking to curb the flow of illegal narcotics. Law enforcement agencies continue their vigilance to protect public safety and maintain the integrity of Hong Kong’s strict anti-drug policies.

HONG KONG, November 3—A motorcyclist was pronounced dead early Friday morning following a solo traffic accident in the Yau Ma Tei district of Kowloon. The incident occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m. today on a slip road connecting to the Western Harbour Tunnel approach via Lin Cheung Road, near the Civil Aid Service Headquarters.

Police and emergency services responded to reports of a crash involving a single motorcycle. According to initial findings, the male rider, whose identity has not yet been released, reportedly lost control of his vehicle while navigating a bend on the stretch leading toward the tunnel entrance.

Fatal Collision Details Emerge

The crash is believed to have happened when the motorcyclist steered into a sharp left turn. Investigators suspect the rider may have clipped the roadside curb, causing him to lose command of the motorbike. The impact reportedly resulted in the rider being thrown from the vehicle, which subsequently skidded approximately 15 meters down the roadway before coming to rest.

Rescue personnel quickly arrived on the scene and transported the seriously injured rider to Kwong Wah Hospital. Despite intensive efforts by medical staff, the man was pronounced dead at 2:41 a.m.

At the crash site, the wreckage of the involved Honda motorcycle was found lying across the road. Crime scene officers noted evidence suggesting a forceful impact, including a noticeable pool of blood and personal belongings scattered near the final resting spot of the vehicle.

The Hong Kong Police Force is currently treating the matter as a fatal traffic accident and has launched a detailed investigation to determine the precise factors that led to the crash. Authorities are examining speed, road conditions, and mechanical integrity of the motorcycle as potential contributing elements.

Focus on Road Safety During Night Hours

This latest fatality underscores ongoing concerns regarding motorcycle safety, particularly on high-speed urban thoroughfares during late-night and early-morning hours. Authorities often remind riders to maintain appropriate speeds, especially when navigating curves and transition points onto major highways.

Road Safety Statistics (Sidebar opportunity):

• Nighttime accidents often involve reduced visibility and fatigue.
• Motorcyclists are disproportionately represented in severe and fatal accident statistics globally.
• Police stress the importance of helmet usage and adherence to posted speed limits.

The specific Lin Cheung Road stretch where the accident occurred is a critical approach route for commuters traveling between West Kowloon and Hong Kong Island via the Western Harbour Tunnel.

Police are appealing to any witnesses who may have seen the motorcycle traveling along Lin Cheung Road prior to the collision or have specific information about the crash to contact the Kowloon West Traffic Investigation Unit immediately. The focus of the inquiry remains on reconstructing the moment the motorcycle lost control. Further updates on the investigation are expected as police complete forensic analysis of the accident scene and the involved vehicle.

HONG KONG — Authorities initiated an investigation late Tuesday after a 46-year-old man was found dead inside a residential unit in Sham Shui Po. Police were alerted to the scene on Hai Tan Street shortly after 10 p.m. when a friend reported finding the victim unconscious, but emergency responders confirmed the man’s death upon arrival, prompting immediate inquiries into the circumstances of his passing.

The deceased, identified by the surname Choi, was discovered in a room within a private apartment located at 230 Hai Tan Street. According to initial reports, a male acquaintance telephoned police, informing them that Mr. Choi had collapsed. Officers and paramedics rapidly converged on the location. Efforts to revive the resident were unsuccessful, and he was officially pronounced dead at the scene.

While initial police statements were brief regarding the cause of death, sources familiar with the case indicated that Mr. Choi had a documented history of underlying health conditions. Investigators have not ruled out any possibilities but are focusing their efforts on gathering evidence at the unit and interviewing witnesses, including the individual who made the discovery. The Sham Shui Po District Crime Squad has taken the lead in the investigation.

Forensics Await to Determine Cause

The sudden nature of the death in the densely populated urban district mandates a thorough examination. Authorities confirmed Wednesday morning that a definitive cause of death cannot be established without further medical scrutiny.

“The case is currently classified as a body discovery pending the completion of a post-mortem examination,” a police spokesperson stated. “Forensic pathologists will conduct an autopsy in the coming days to ascertain the precise circumstances leading to the individual’s demise.”

The specific nature of Mr. Choi’s pre-existing medical issues was not disclosed by officials. Police are examining the possibility that his health history may have contributed to his collapse, although foul play cannot be definitively excluded until the full medical report is produced.

Community Impact and Next Steps

The incident briefly drew concern from local residents in the bustling neighborhood near Cheung Sha Wan Road. While police cordoned off the unit for evidence processing, officers maintained a presence to conduct door-to-door inquiries aimed at establishing Mr. Choi’s recent activities and potential contacts leading up to Tuesday night.

The official inquiry will now center on three key areas:

• Forensic Analysis: Expediting the post-mortem to provide definitive medical findings.
• Witness Interviews: Completing interviews with the reporting friend and other associates.
• Background Check: Reviewing Mr. Choi’s medical records and recent movements.

The case remains under active investigation. Should the forensic examination suggest a non-natural cause of death, the investigation’s classification and focus will shift dramatically. The public is urged to contact Sham Shui Po police if they possess any information pertinent to the case.

A search operation spanning ten days concluded tragically this week when rescue workers discovered the body of a missing 87-year-old man on a hillside in the Pineapple Hill (Po Lo Shan) area of Tuen Mun, Hong Kong. Mr. Leung Huan-yiu, who disappeared from his residence in the Shan King Estate on June 24, was located on Tuesday afternoon, July 2, confirming the worst fears of his family and the community.

The extensive search effort began after Mr. Leung’s family reported him missing, noting that the final traceable signal from his mobile phone originated from the rugged terrain near Pineapple Hill. While the exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unconfirmed, his presumed attempt to hike alone led to him becoming completely unreachable.

The Search Effort and Discovery

Following Mr. Leung’s disappearance, a concerted search led by official emergency services, including the Fire Services Department, was significantly augmented by voluntary organizations. The Hong Kong Guardians Service Team utilized social media platforms to widely circulate missing person appeals, noting the deceased was last seen wearing a camouflage black and white jacket and black trousers.

Volunteers from groups such as the Country Voluntary Search Team played a critical role in narrowing the search radius. According to records kept by the civilian search unit, Mr. Leung’s remains were eventually found approximately 300 meters above the football pitch at the Shui Wai Yuen Sitting-Out Area, deep within a dense section of Pineapple Hill.

Emergency personnel confirmed the fatality upon reaching the location around 4 p.m. on Tuesday. Police were officially notified earlier in the week when a member of the public reported finding the deceased man on Sunday, though formal identification was confirmed on Tuesday.

Community Impact and Official Inquiry

The news of the discovery has cast a pall over the Tuen Mun community, serving as a stark reminder of the risks associated with hiking in Hong Kong’s remote areas, particularly for elderly individuals. Pineapple Hill, while popular for its scenic views, features challenging, often unmarked trails.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of death. While no immediate foul play is suspected, police confirmed that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to formally determine the circumstances of Mr. Leung’s passing.

Safety Reminders for Hikers

This tragic incident highlights essential safety precautions for hikers, especially senior citizens or those venturing into unfamiliar terrain:

• Inform Others: Always inform family or friends of your exact route, planned duration, and expected return time.
• Stay Prepared: Carry fully charged communication devices, adequate water, and relevant hiking gear.
• Avoid Solo Hikes: When possible, hike with a companion, particularly on challenging trails like those found around Pineapple Hill.
• Monitor Weather: Be aware of rapidly changing weather conditions in remote areas.

The case underscores the invaluable coordination between official emergency services and dedicated civilian volunteer search groups in managing complex missing person cases across Hong Kong’s vast countryside. The community now awaits the results of the official investigation as they mourn the loss of Mr. Leung.

HONG KONG—A catastrophic five-alarm fire that ravaged the Chun Fok Estate in Tai Po on November 26 has now claimed 156 lives, prompting a massive criminal investigation focused on disastrous system failures. Preliminary findings by the Fire Services Department indicate that the critical safety failure contributing to the unprecedented death toll was the complete malfunction of the fire alarm systems across all eight residential blocks during the initial hours of the blaze. As the community observed a week of mourning on Tuesday, new evidence emerged detailing the horrific speed and lethality of the smoke, bolstering residents’ furious claims that silenced alarms sealed the fate of their neighbors.

The official death toll stands at 156, including one firefighter killed in the line of duty, with approximately 30 individuals still unaccounted for. Meanwhile, authorities confirmed 79 people sustained injuries. In a significant development, manslaughter charges have been filed against 15 suspects connected to complex renovation work at the estate. Those arrested include personnel from the main contractor, engineering consultancy, scaffolding subcontractors, and external wall engineering specialists. Separately, some individuals were also detained by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), suggesting potential corruption related to the construction work or safety certifications.

Eight Minutes of Terror

The speed of the disaster was powerfully illustrated by a resident of Hung Cheong Court, the building where the fire reportedly originated. Sharing security camera footage from his front door within a community forum, the resident documented his harrowing escape and the terrifying rapid advance of the smoke.

The footage showed that from the first sign of trouble until the corridor was entirely engulfed in thick, noxious smoke, only about eight minutes elapsed. The resident, who lives on a middle floor, recounted smelling burning around 2:52 p.m. and investigating with neighbors. Observing white smoke rising rapidly from both stairwells, he realized the peril of descending and the impossibility of ascending.

He immediately raised the alarm, shouting warnings and pounding on neighbors’ doors, but noted that pushing the designated fire alarm button yielded no sound. “I realized the alarm was completely silent,” he told the group, expressing profound anger. “The silent alarm is the main tragedy here. Who was so heartless as to disable the fire bells?”

In a desperate gamble, he and three neighbors decided to take the elevator, noting that when the doors opened, the cabin was clear of smoke. “We debated whether to risk it,” he recalled. Within seconds, they were on the ground floor, sprinting out just as heavy smoke billowed from the rooftop. The resident reflected bitterly that a delay of even three more minutes would have trapped them, lamenting his inability to save more neighbors.

Safety Oversight Under Scrutiny

The immediate fallout from the disaster centers on the complete breakdown of standard fire safety protocols. The Fire Services Department has been unequivocal in stating that the alarm systems in all eight towers of the Chun Fok Estate failed to activate. This catastrophic failure meant residents were given virtually no early warning, a factor experts believe turned a serious structural fire into a massive fatality event.

The multiple arrests underscore the focus of investigators on potentially faulty or compromised construction and renovation work preceding the tragedy. Authorities are aggressively probing whether negligence, improper installation, or deliberate disabling of safety systems during ongoing maintenance contributed to the silence of the alarms.

The disaster has ignited a fierce public debate over building safety standards and regulatory oversight in high-density urban centers. Lawmakers are facing pressure to mandate immediate, comprehensive audits of fire safety systems in all large residential estates undergoing renovation to prevent another such nightmare scenario. Hong Kong Chief Executive has promised a thorough, independent inquiry into the regulatory and criminal aspects of the deadly blaze.

HONG KONG — Hong Kong announced a comprehensive relief package Friday, totaling nearly HK$10 million in direct compensation and aid for foreign domestic workers and their families affected by the catastrophic five-alarm fire that engulfed the Wonderful Life Mansion in Tai Po earlier this week, claiming 151 lives and injuring 79. The relief effort, detailed by Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun and visiting Philippine Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Hans Leo J. Cacdac, focuses on streamlining assistance, providing immediate financial support, and ensuring the humanitarian needs of the surviving workers are met.

The tragic blaze resulted in a disproportionate number of casualties among the building’s essential workforce. Of the 235 foreign domestic workers reportedly employed at the complex, 10 perished, three were injured, and 30 remain unaccounted for, according to Secretary Sun.

Financial Support Targets Victims and Survivors

In a media briefing at government headquarters, Secretary Sun confirmed specific financial disbursements aimed at mitigating the humanitarian crisis. The families of the deceased foreign workers will receive approximately HK$800,000 each, comprising a HK$500,000 statutory compensation payment and a HK$200,000 one-off compassionate grant.

For injured workers, compensation varies based on recovery needs: those requiring extended hospitalization will receive a lump sum of HK$100,000, while those with shorter stays are eligible for HK$50,000. Workers who survived the immediate danger unscathed will receive an ex gratia payment of HK$20,000. Additionally, all surviving workers, injured or safe, will receive an Octopus card pre-loaded with HK$2,000 for emergency expenses.

Crucially, the government stated that all aid payments earmarked for foreign domestic workers will be distributed directly through the workers’ respective consulates—a measure intended to prevent opportunistic scams following reports of fraudulent activity post-disaster.

Coordinated Relief Effort Launched

The fire, which is still under investigation, has highlighted the critical need for coordinated disaster relief. Secretary Sun acknowledged that well-intentioned but disorganized aid from various charitable groups was overwhelming residents, forcing repeated applications for assistance.

To address this, the government convened a meeting with 10 major charities, securing an agreement to centralize relief efforts under the government’s existing “One Social Worker per Household” system. This scheme ensures that a dedicated case worker proactively assesses each affected resident’s needs, handles application processes, and arranges the direct delivery of financial assistance or supplies, eliminating the need for victims to repeatedly fill out forms. Charitable organizations wishing to provide further aid are strongly urged to work directly through the government’s appointed social workers, establishing a cohesive, one-stop service point.

International Cooperation and Repatriation

Philippine Undersecretary Cacdac emphasized the strong partnership between Manila and Hong Kong in supporting the estimated 94 Filipino workers and 141 Indonesian workers who lived and worked in the complex. The consulate has provided immediate resources, including temporary shelter and basic necessities, while actively replacing lost travel and identity documents in coordination with the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

In a poignant human element of the tragedy, Undersecretary Cacdac announced that a Filipino domestic worker who was previously in critical condition in the intensive care unit is now stable and arrangements are underway for her eventual repatriation to reunite with her family.

For foreign domestic workers whose employers perished in the inferno, the Immigration Department has promised a flexible, humanitarian approach to expedite applications for new employment contracts. Furthermore, acknowledging the widespread loss of passports, contracts, and identity cards in the fire, the Immigration Department has established an emergency service to facilitate the swift replacement of these crucial documents, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles for the survivors as they rebuild their lives.

HONG KONG, June 2 — The Hong Kong government announced a robust compensation package today for the victims and survivors of the recent Ng Fuk Court residential fire in Tai Po, which claimed the lives of 151 people and injured 79, including numerous foreign domestic workers.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun met with Philippine Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac at government headquarters this afternoon to address the tragedy and outline support measures. Mr. Sun confirmed that the families of deceased foreign workers would receive nearly HK$800,000 in combined compensation, covering statutory payments and special relief funds.

Financial Relief Detailed

The extensive support package aims to provide immediate financial stability for the affected workers and their families. For each foreign domestic worker who perished in the blaze, the compensation includes HK$500,000 in statutory indemnities and an additional HK$200,000 as a one-time compassionate grant.

Injured workers admitted to hospitals will receive compassionate grants of either HK$50,000 or HK$100,000, depending on the length of their hospitalization. Furthermore, all survivors deemed safe will be given a one-off payment of HK$20,000. In an immediate practical measure, both injured and safe foreign workers will also receive an Octopus stored-value card pre-loaded with HK$2,000.

Secretary Sun confirmed crucial data regarding the foreign workforce cohort operating at the Ng Fuk Court location. “Based on current information, 235 foreign domestic workers were employed at Ng Fuk Court,” Sun stated. “Tragically, 10 workers have died, 3 have been injured, and 192 are confirmed safe. Regrettably, 30 individuals remain unaccounted for.”

He further detailed the nationalities of those involved: 94 workers hailed from the Philippines, and 141 were from Indonesia. No other nationalities were reported in this group.

Bilateral Cooperation and Repatriation Efforts

Secretary Cacdac emphasized the strong coordination between Manila and Hong Kong authorities to assist the impacted Filipino workers and their families. The Philippine consulate has been actively providing necessary resources and logistical support.

“Our mission has ensured temporary accommodation and essential supplies for the survivors,” Cacdac said. “We are also helping them replace immigration and identity documents lost in the fire, working closely with the Hong Kong Immigration Department to expedite these procedures.”

Cacdac offered a glimmer of positive news, noting that a Filipino woman who had been previously in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit is now stable. Arrangements are reportedly underway for her eventual repatriation to reunite with her family in the Philippines. For the families of those who died, the Philippine government has extended financial and material assistance.

The government’s rapid deployment of resources underscores the significant impact foreign domestic workers have on Hong Kong’s society and the critical need for robust welfare safety nets during crises. The ongoing effort to locate the 30 missing workers remains a priority for emergency services as the community attempts to process the scale of the tragedy.

HONG KONG — Citizens across Hong Kong have gathered for three days of solemn remembrance at the Kowloon Funeral Parlor, honoring those tragically lost in the recent horrific apartment complex fire in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court. Today, December 2, marks the seventh day since the devastating blaze, known as the “first seven” in Chinese custom, drawing large crowds seeking to pay their final respects following the tragedy.

The temporary memorial hall, open from November 30 to December 2, has become a focal point for communal grief. Decorated simply with white flowers and a banner reading “Forever Missed,” the atmosphere within the parlor remains profoundly somber. Mourners, many carrying white floral tributes, expressed deep sorrow for the victims of the five-alarm fire. The outpouring of public grief underscores a strong community desire for comfort and accountability.

A Quest for Solace and Accountability

The location provides a space for those who feel unable or unwilling to attend the disaster site directly. Shirley, a 20-year-old student who traveled from Sha Tin, explained she avoided the Wang Fuk Court site out of respect for the victims’ immediate families. “This is a less intrusive way to offer comfort,” she noted, seeking a quiet place for reflection.

The public response extended beyond simple mourning. Volunteers like Ms. Ren, assisting at the parlor, articulated a broader call for action. Deeply saddened by the event, she voiced the common plea for a transparent government investigation: “We hope the government thoroughly examines this incident to deliver justice for the deceased.”

The calls for accountability resonated globally. Jaffar Ali, a visitor from Pakistan, specifically urged relevant authorities to take responsibility for the catastrophe. Furthermore, he emphasized the critical need for robust support from the Hong Kong government for those who lost family members and property in the fire.

Community Unites Through Shared Rituals

The sheer volume of mourners has steadily increased since the hall opened. Thomas Kam, general manager of Kowloon Funeral Parlor, observed that beyond traditional silence, citizens were spontaneously creating traditional offerings like paper cranes and sycee (paper money). He also noted the significant volunteer efforts, including support from students at Hong Kong Metropolitan University.

The rituals provided essential emotional outlets. Today, Buddhist and Taoist priests performed chanting ceremonies in the afternoon, providing additional spiritual comfort. Raymond Kwan, founder of the funeral service provider, remarked that the growing number of visitors highlights the community’s need for various religious formats to process their pain. He announced his company plans to offer future “life and death education” seminars, aimed at helping surviving family members navigate grief and loss through a clearer understanding of mortality.

For those unable to attend in person, the funeral parlor facilitated an online avenue for expression. Messages submitted through the parlor’s website expressing sympathy for the victims and survivors are being projected within the memorial hall, ensuring that diverse forms of remembrance reach the mourning community. The ongoing public vigil serves as both a testament to the tragic losses and a collective demand for measures that ensure such a disaster is not repeated.

HONG KONG — A subdued wave of public mourning culminated today, the seventh day since the devastating five-alarm apartment fire in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court, as scores of citizens converged on a temporary memorial hall in Kowloon to pay respects to those lost in the tragedy, prompting renewed calls for accountability and community support.

The Kowloon Funeral Home opened its main hall for three consecutive days, running from November 30 to December 2, specifically to serve as a centralized space for public condolence. Today, often referred to as the traditional “Head Seven” observance in Chinese custom, saw the largest gathering, with mourners, many clutching white flowers, processing in solemn silence.

Inside the hall, an atmosphere of reverent dignity prevailed. The space was transformed with white floral tributes, topped by a banner reading, “Forever Remembered” (永遠懷念). Dedicated areas were set up for candlelight vigils and personal floral offerings, providing a quiet alternative for citizens who felt approaching the Tai Po site directly might intrude upon the grieving families.

Community Solidarity and Calls for Inquiry

The collective grief spurred both local residents and international visitors to action. Shirley, a 20-year-old university student who traveled from Sha Tin, explained her choice to mourn at the funeral home, stating she wanted to offer comfort without causing disruption at the sensitive fire site.

“This fire was profoundly saddening,” said Ms. Yam, a volunteer at the funeral home, who felt compelled to offer assistance. She also voiced a growing public demand for a thorough government investigation, seeking assurances that justice be served for the victims.

Zhou, a 50-year-old Tai Po resident, waited outside, expressing his personal incomprehension of the disaster. “It’s difficult to process this entire catastrophe,” he said, offering hopes that the victims rest peacefully and their families find solace.

The disaster also drew reaction from abroad. Jaffar Ali, a Pakistani traveler visiting Hong Kong, emphasized the need for responsible parties to be held accountable and urged the Hong Kong government to deploy comprehensive support for those who lost family and property.

Memorial Efforts and Outreach

The general manager of Kowloon Funeral Home, Kam Leung Tak, acknowledged the outpouring of public warmth. Beyond silent reflection, many mourners spontaneously began folding traditional paper offerings, such as cranes and mock sycee (ingots), to honor the deceased. Gratitude was also extended to student volunteers from the Metropolitan University who dedicated their time to assist the solemn proceedings.

Mr. Ivan Kwan, founder of the funeral service company Peaceful Dwelling (安靈舍), noted that attendance had been steadily increasing each day. He highlighted the role of religious services—Buddhist and Taoist monks performed chanting ceremonies in the afternoon—in providing spiritual comfort.

Looking ahead, Mr. Kwan announced that his organization plans to host “Life and Death Education” sessions. This initiative aims to help affected families process their grief and navigate the painful aftermath by offering a deeper understanding of mortality.

For those unable to attend in person, the funeral home established an online condolence book, with messages being projected visually within the hall, ensuring that digital expressions of sympathy reached the heart of the memorial. As the city attempts to heal, the unified call for transparent inquiry and sustained support for the affected families remains the key next step.

HONG KONG, December 2 – Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee Ka-chiu, forcefully defended the government’s response to the devastating Tai Po Wang Fuk Court fire and simultaneously vowed swift action against those allegedly undermining social stability, following mounting international scrutiny. The inferno, classified as a Level 5 incident, resulted in at least 151 fatalities, triggering widespread consensus for a thorough investigation and accountability for the disaster.

In a press conference ahead of the Executive Council meeting today, Mr. Lee used strong language while addressing media inquiries, particularly from foreign outlets, about both the disaster probe and the recent arrests of individuals under “sedition” charges. His comments come as the government details the ongoing investigation into the fire, suggesting cost-cutting measures may have involved the use of non-compliant, non-flame retardant scaffolding nets on the building’s exterior façade, allegedly to deceive safety tests. Fourteen individuals have been arrested so far in connection with the fire.

Leader Pledges Rigorous Pursuit of Accountability

The Chief Executive emphasized that the government is committed to structural reform and holding those responsible for the tragedy accountable.

“This fire is a tragedy, and therefore necessitates reform,” Mr. Lee stated, acknowledging that the disaster exposed systemic issues and “bottlenecks” within the current building renovation and oversight system. He promised a sweeping review to identify and plug all regulatory loopholes, ensuring such an event is never repeated. Furthermore, he explicitly addressed concerns about corruption and undue influence.

“We need to ensure vested interests will not be allowed to affect to cause this tragedy,” he declared, promising enhanced and reformed systems to eliminate long-standing defects that may have been exploited. Mr. Lee confirmed the establishment of an independent commission, led by a judge, to thoroughly investigate the incident, assuring the public that its findings will be fully disclosed.

Sedition Arrests Defended Amid Scrutiny

The focus of the press briefing shifted when Mr. Lee was pressed on reports that three individuals—identified by reporters as a student, a former district councilor, and a volunteer—had been arrested on suspicion of sedition. The arrests occurred concurrently with the response efforts to the catastrophic blaze.

The Chief Executive staunchly defended the actions of law enforcement, stating that all criminals must face the full force of the law, regardless of the nature of the alleged offense or the background of the individuals involved.

“Anybody who dares to sabotage this attempt, this commitment of society, we will do anything we can to ensure that justice will be done,” Mr. Lee said, stressing that law enforcement has an obligation to act against lawbreakers. He cautioned against attempts to capitalize on the ongoing community distress: “We will absolutely not tolerate any criminal activity, especially those attempting to utilize the current tragedy.”

Mr. Lee maintained that while the community is galvanized to help survivors and rebuild, any attempt to disrupt these efforts or sow discord would be met with an immediate response. He reiterated that the broader social commitment remains focused on recovery and reform. The government has reassured the public that the upcoming Legislative Council elections, scheduled for December 7, will proceed as planned, with newly elected lawmakers expected to be critical partners in implementing fire safety reforms.

The investigation into the cause of the fire and the subsequent arrests underscore a period of intense public anxiety and political tension, balancing official calls for unity with demands for unfettered scrutiny of government oversight.