Author: Cheung Wai-Man

  • Hong Kong Motorists Can Enter Lottery for Coveted Mainland Driving Permits

    Hong Kong, 30 November — Motorists looking to drive their private vehicles into mainland China via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) are reminded that the 67th round of the highly competitive Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles scheme lottery opens registration this week. The Transport Department announced today that the registration period for the computer balloting system will begin at 10 a.m. on December 1st and conclude shortly before midnight on December 4th. This scheme is essential for eligible residents seeking temporary cross-border driving access.

    Registering for the Permit Draw

    The balloting system determines which applicants receive an opportunity to apply for the necessary permits under the streamlined cross-boundary travel program. The application process is managed entirely online.

    Key Dates for the 67th Round:

    • Registration Start: 10:00 a.m., December 1st
    • Registration Deadline: 11:59 p.m., December 4th
    • Ballot Results Release: December 5th

    Interested and eligible drivers must register through the official website dedicated to the quota-free scheme: www.hzmbqfs.gov.hk. The system employs a random computer draw due to the overwhelming demand for the limited permits.

    The popular Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles initiative significantly simplifies the historically complex process for Hong Kong residents to drive into Guangdong Province. By utilizing the HZMB, the scheme bypasses many of the previous approval hurdles, aiming to foster greater economic and cultural exchange within the Greater Bay Area.

    Successful registration in the ballot does not immediately grant the travel permit. Instead, winning registrants gain the right to submit a formal application for the scheme within a strictly enforced submission window. These subsequent applications involve detailed document checks, including vehicle registration documents, insurance coverage valid for the mainland, and driver’s licenses.

    The scheme stipulates specific vehicle and driver eligibility criteria, generally restricted to non-commercial Hong Kong private vehicles whose owners meet residency or business requirements. Successful applicants receive permits allowing travel for a set duration, often requiring the vehicle to return to Hong Kong before the permit expires.

    The continued use of a lottery system highlights the intense demand among Hong Kong residents to leverage the convenience of the HZMB for leisure, family visits, and business opportunities in the mainland. Vehicle owners planning to participate are urged to ensure they meet the full eligibility requirements before registering for the upcoming draw and to be prepared to submit their final applications promptly after the results are released on December 5th. Further information and detailed requirements can be found on the Transport Department’s scheme-specific website.

  • Global Airbus Fleet Receives Urgent Software Update Against Solar Radiation Risk

    A significant portion of the global commercial aviation fleet, encompassing approximately 6,000 aircraft from the Airbus A320 family, faced an immediate grounding order late last week following a critical technical directive issued by the aircraft manufacturer. The decision, announced Friday, November 28, centered on a newly identified vulnerability within the flight-control systems susceptible to interference from intense solar radiation. While the required software update temporarily disrupted schedules for numerous global carriers, leading to delays and cancellations, regional airline HK Express confirmed it successfully implemented the fix without impacting its operations.

    The urgent measure resulted from Airbus identifying a security weak point that could potentially compromise the safety of the A320 systems should the aircraft be exposed to unexpectedly high levels of solar flares or intense cosmic ray activity. The directive mandated the immediate recall of the affected aircraft to install the necessary patch, highlighting the industry’s proactive approach to even remote cosmic threats.

    HK Express Navigates Grounding Mandate Seamlessly

    In contrast to widespread industry disruption, Hong Kong-based carrier HK Express reported zero flight cancellations and maintained regular service throughout the mandated update period. The airline quickly announced that its entire fleet subject to the Airbus directive had received the A320 software enhancement effectively.

    Sinead Conroy, Chief Operating Officer of HK Express, praised the internal response, emphasizing the company’s firm commitment to passenger safety and robust maintenance protocols. “We are pleased Our teams carried out all necessary updates swiftly and safely, with no impact on flight operations,” Conroy stated. “This outcome reflects HK Express’s steadfast commitment to safety, reliability, and teamwork.”

    The airline’s quick action underscored the efficacy of its engineering and maintenance operations, which prioritized completing the complex procedure promptly and safely.

    Prioritizing Safety Amid Global Technical Directives

    Technical directives of this nature, while rare, are essential mechanisms within the highly regulated aviation industry to ensure continuous airworthiness and address evolving threats, whether mechanical, cyber, or environmental. The ability of airlines like HK Express to execute such complex, fleet-wide updates under immense time pressure showcases a high degree of operational preparedness.

    HK Express, known for its strong regional footprint, primarily services key destinations across Asia. Its routes include critical links within Mainland China, such as Ningbo, Changzhou, and Yiwu, focusing on the dynamic Yangtze River Delta region. Maintaining continuity on these routes was vital for passenger and cargo flow.

    The successful implementation of this technical fix across the global A320 fleet reassures the traveling public of the industry’s vigilance. While the immediate threat posed by cosmic radiation is statistically low, modern aircraft systems must be hardened against all potential variables to maintain the highest safety standards. This global grounding and swift recovery underscore the robust collaboration between aircraft manufacturers and operators when addressing fleet-wide safety enhancements. Travelers are encouraged to check with their specific airlines for any residual cascading delays following the major global update event.

  • Automaker XPeng Files Police Report Over Malicious AI-Generated Video

    Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng has initiated legal action against the spread of what it claims is a fabricated, AI-generated video designed to damage its brand. The incident, centered around the recent Guangzhou Auto Show, unfolded on Friday, November 28, when a deeply manipulated video circulated across mainland Chinese social media platforms depicting unprofessional and explicit behavior allegedly occurring at the company’s exhibit. XPeng’s swift response included preserving evidence, filing a formal complaint with public security authorities, and strongly condemning the use of artificial intelligence for corporate defamation.

    Malicious Content Targets Auto Show Display

    The controversy first surfaced when a video went viral online, appearing to show a woman engaging in lewd acts, including removing clothing, with XPeng’s new P7 electric saloon prominently displayed in the background. The visuals immediately suggested an affiliation with the automaker’s participation at the prestigious Guangzhou event.

    XPeng’s legal department promptly issued a statement refuting the content’s authenticity. They characterized the clip as a “malicious, AI-generated fabrication” specifically orchestrated to smear the company’s reputation. The legal team emphasized that the dissemination accounts were deliberately using “vulgar and false pornographic footage” set against the backdrop of their stand to incite negative publicity and unjustly denigrate the brand and its products.

    XPeng Vows Legal Accountability Against Defamation

    The automaker stressed that this deliberate manipulation goes beyond simple negative commentary, amounting to a violation of public decency, pollution of the online environment, and a clear infringement of the company’s lawful rights. XPeng also categorically denied inviting any professional models or performers to its stand, highlighting its opposition to promotional tactics involving inappropriate or suggestive content.

    “Such behavior crosses legal red lines,” the legal team stated. Police authorities are now actively investigating the source and circulation of the deepfake content. The automaker is dedicating significant resources toward identifying and holding accountable those responsible for creating and distributing the footage.

    The Growing Threat of AI-Powered Corporate Smear Campaigns

    This incident underscores the rapidly emerging threat posed by sophisticated generative AI tools in the realm of corporate communications and image integrity. The technology allows bad actors to create highly realistic yet entirely false scenarios, often making immediate content authentication difficult for the public and social media platforms.

    For companies operating in competitive, high-visibility sectors like the automotive industry, the challenge of combating deepfakes is paramount. The speed at which fabricated content can circulate necessitates immediate, comprehensive legal and public relations responses to mitigate reputational risk.

    XPeng is committed to pursuing the case to the fullest extent of the law, viewing this action not only as a defense of its brand but also as a necessary stand against the misuse of powerful AI technology for destructive purposes. As the investigation continues, this case may set important precedents for how Chinese law addresses AI-powered corporate defamation in the digital age.

  • Rescue Team Saves Man After Fall Near Hong Kong’s Avenue of Stars

    A young man was rescued from Victoria Harbour late Friday night after falling into the water near the bustling Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, prompting a rapid response from emergency services. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on November 29, opposite the Tsim Sha Tsui Centre, close to the popular Avenue of Stars. Firefighters quickly retrieved the individual, believed to be in his early twenties, from the sea. Although conscious following the rescue, he was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for thorough medical evaluation and treatment. Authorities have initiated an inquiry to determine the exact circumstances that led to the incident.

    The immediate deployment of fire services ensured a swift and successful extraction from the cold waters of the harbor. The area, a major tourist and local hub, is typically crowded, highlighting the accessibility and vigilance of Hong Kong’s emergency protocol. While the specific cause of the fall remains under investigation by the police, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the safety challenges inherent to busy waterfront areas, particularly after dark. Authorities have not released further details regarding the individual’s identity or condition.

    Prioritizing Mental Health Resources in Hong Kong

    While the investigation is ongoing, this event underscores the crucial need for accessible mental health support across the city. Navigating stress and personal challenges can be complex, and timely intervention resources are readily available for those in distress.

    For individuals in Hong Kong experiencing feelings of depression or suicidal ideation, confidential help lines offer vital, immediate assistance:

    • The Samaritans Hong Kong: This organization provides a 24-hour multilingual hotline dedicated to crisis intervention; reachable at 2896 0000.
    • The Help Project: Offering free and confidential mental health support and assistance, services can be accessed by calling or messaging via WhatsApp at 2827 2525.

    Furthermore, support systems are specifically tailored to address the diverse needs of Hong Kong’s population. The Government’s Ethnic Minority Well-being Centre offers free, one-on-one counseling services for non-Chinese residents. These services are available in several languages, including English, Hindi, Urdu, and Nepalese. Interested individuals can contact 9682 3100 for more information on accessing culturally sensitive care tailored to their needs.

    These resources emphasize a central message: You are not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and numerous professional and confidential lifelines are ready to provide support, guidance, and assistance. The long-term societal impact of these services is significant, ensuring that individuals facing mental health crises have immediate avenues for professional care and recovery.

    The outcome of the police investigation into the Avenue of Stars incident is pending, but the quick action of the fire services ensured a life was saved, demonstrating the efficacy of urban rescue operations in densely populated locales.

  • Venezuela Decries US Airspace Warning as ‘Unjustified Aggression’

    Caracas, Venezuela—The Venezuelan government sharply denounced a recent advisory from the United States regarding its national airspace, labeling the move an “extravagant, illegal, and unjustified aggression” that directly challenges the nation’s sovereign rights. Over the weekend, officials in Caracas formally rejected what they view as Washington’s attempt to assert extraterritorial jurisdiction, arguing the U.S. position jeopardizes Venezuela’s territorial integrity and is a clear violation of international law. This diplomatic firestorm erupted following a public statement by former U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting that the airspace over and surrounding Venezuela should be entirely prohibited.

    Diplomatic Spat Erupts Over Airspace Sovereignty

    The controversy stems from remarks posted on social media by President Trump, who offered a blanket declaration that the “airspace above and surrounding Venezuela” should be considered “closed in its entirety.” While the message was aimed broadly at “airlines, pilots, drug dealers and human traffickers,” it lacked specific details or an official grounding in current international aviation protocols. These remarks immediately drew the ire of the Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    Venezuela’s formal response highlighted that the U.S. declaration constituted an explicit threat of force, an action prohibited under the foundational principles of the United Nations Charter. Furthermore, Caracas referenced the 1944 Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation, which unequivocally affirms that every signatory nation possesses exclusive sovereignty over the airspace directly above its territory. The Venezuelan statement was resolute: the nation will not tolerate “orders, threats or interference” from any external power seeking to disrupt its legal domestic control.

    Addressing the international community, Caracas described the U.S. action as an “immoral act of aggression” and vowed to counter the pressure with responses framed “with legality and dignity.” This incident underscores the heightened political tensions that continue to define the bilateral relationship between Washington and Caracas.

    Implications for International Aviation Law

    The principle of exclusive national airspace sovereignty is paramount to global aviation stability and has been a cornerstone of international law since World War I. Any unilateral declaration by a foreign power attempting to close or restrict a sovereign nation’s airspace—especially without documented evidence of immediate security threats to international travel—is generally viewed as a profound diplomatic overstep.

    Key Takeaways on Airspace Sovereignty:

    • Chicago Convention (1944): This treaty establishes the framework for international civil air transport and confirms a state’s complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above its land.
    • UN Charter: Prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.
    • Extraterritorial Jurisdiction: The core of Venezuela’s objection is the U.S. attempting to impose its domestic authority outside its own borders, a practice widely resisted by sovereign nations.

    The episode serves as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between national security interests and internationally recognized sovereign rights. International bodies, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), may be called upon to mediate or clarify the application of aviation advisories to ensure they adhere strictly to established global norms and avoid further escalation of diplomatic disputes.

  • Massive Fire Aftermath: Disaster Teams Search Tai Po Housing Estate

    HONG KONG, November 30, 2025 — Following a devastating fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, specialized forensic teams have begun the grim task of identifying victims amid a catastrophic loss of life. The fire, which ripped through parts of the residential complex, has tragically claimed at least 128 lives, injured 83 others, and left a potential 150 residents unaccounted for. Personnel from the Disaster Victim Identification Unit (DVIU) entered the heavily damaged estate today, working under restrictive conditions to meticulously document and recover human remains and evidence, initiating what authorities anticipate will be a weeks-long search and recovery operation.

    Forensic Teams Enter Burned-Out Complex

    Dressed in specialized white protective gear, DVIU specialists convened at a nearby basketball court before moving into the high-rise complex early this morning. The initial focus involved a structured sweep of Wang Tao House and Wang Yan House, which officers reported have been fully searched with no human remains discovered. This completion allowed for a swifter entry into other affected areas. Police Commissioner Joe Chow visited the scene in the afternoon, while Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing addressed the media, underscoring the government’s commitment to transparency and rapid response.

    The scale of the destruction is profound. Images from inside the complex reveal apartments completely gutted by the heat, with structural elements compromised, walls stripped bare, and floors overlaid with layers of ash, twisted metal, and burnt debris. While some units show complete devastation, rendering household items like stoves and washing machines barely recognizable, others appear less severely affected, with some furniture still discernible. Firefighters continue to support the operation, transporting materials intended to stabilize dangerous areas, including foam panels and scaffolding netting.

    Identifying the Missing and Unaccounted

    The priority for DVIU teams is accurately identifying all victims. This process involves cataloging the position and condition of any located remains and carefully collecting personal effects that could serve as identifying evidence.

    As of today, the official count of uncontactable individuals stands at approximately 150. Police acknowledged significant hurdles in tracking these residents, noting that information for roughly 100 cases is highly fragmented.

    “Some callers to the hotline were unsure whether the missing friend actually lived at Wang Fuk Court, had not been in touch for years, or only knew a nickname,” a police spokesperson stated. Authorities are systematically contacting each caller to gather more precise details to refine the missing persons list, which is crucial for reducing the anxiety of affected families.

    Key Recovery Milestones:

    • 128 fatalities confirmed, with 83 injured.
    • Initial sweeps of two major blocks (Wang Tao House and Wang Yan House) completed without finding remains.
    • Three cats and one turtle were rescued from the completed search areas and transferred to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
    • Over a hundred additional personnel joined the DVIU effort by yesterday afternoon to accelerate the process.

    Outlook: Weeks of Intensive Search Ahead

    While the swift cooling of high-temperature hotspots in the two initially searched buildings allowed DVI teams to advance quickly, authorities warned the overall investigative and recovery process will be protracted. Police estimate that the comprehensive, estate-wide search will require three to four weeks, yet they have pledged to expedite the operation and lift security cordons as soon as legally and practically feasible.

    The long-term impact of this tragedy extends beyond immediate recovery, necessitating community support and mental health resources for the hundreds of survivors and affected families grappling with this monumental loss. The ongoing DVIU operation represents a critical step towards closure for the community, ensuring every life lost is accounted for meticulously.

  • Deadly Inferno at Wang Fuk Court Claims Filipino Worker Among 128 Victims

    A catastrophic No. 5-alarm fire that engulfed Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, has resulted in a staggering loss of life, with the confirmed death toll reaching 128, including international residents working as domestic helpers. Following confirmation that two Indonesian nationals perished, the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong verified on Friday, November 29, that a Filipino domestic worker also lost her life in the tragic incident, deepening the impact on the city’s expatriate community. Consular officials extended profound sympathies to the victim’s family and friends during this period of immense mourning.

    The November 26 blaze, ranked among Hong Kong’s most severe residential fires in recent history, devastated the residential complex, sparking urgent safety reviews across similar high-density housing estates. According to the Philippine Consulate General, the disaster has significantly affected their community. While 79 Filipino nationals who resided in or near the affected area have been confirmed safe and accounted for, one individual sustained injuries. The status of 12 other Filipino residents remains under verification as authorities continue their meticulous identification and safety checks following the widespread destruction.

    In an official statement, the mission paid heartfelt tribute to the deceased domestic worker, acknowledging the substantial sacrifices she made by working away from her homeland to provide financial support for her family back in the Philippines. The consulate emphasized the shared grief felt by the community and offered prayers for her eternal peace. This recent confirmation underscores the human cost of the tragedy, highlighting how fires in densely populated urban centers disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, including migrant workers.

    The incident has triggered widespread discussions regarding fire safety protocols and building management standards within older residential buildings in Hong Kong. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the conflagration and assessing potential breaches of safety regulations. Experts stress the critical need for mandatory, regular inspections of fire-fighting equipment, escape routes, and structural integrity, especially in buildings constructed several decades ago.

    Protecting Domestic Helpers in High-Density Housing

    The confirmation of multiple casualties among migrant domestic helpers serves as a stark reminder of the often-precarious living conditions faced by these essential workers. Many live in localized quarters within the homes of their employers in such residential towers.

    • Ensure Clear Escape Routes: Employers and building management must guarantee that all fire exit routes are unobstructed and clearly marked, accessible to all occupants.
    • Mandatory Safety Briefings: Regular safety and emergency protocol training should be standard for all residents, including domestic workers, covering the use of fire extinguishers and evacuation procedures.
    • Accommodation Standards: Authorities must strictly enforce housing safety standards for domestic helpers, ensuring their living spaces meet minimum safety requirements regarding ventilation and fire safety compliance.

    As the community begins the slow, painful process of recovery, the consulates of affected nations are working closely with Hong Kong authorities to expedite the repatriation of the deceased and provide ongoing support and counseling services for survivors and families impacted by the disaster. The tragedy at Wang Fuk Court necessitates a systemic review of fire safety infrastructure and preparedness across Hong Kong’s vast housing complexes.

  • Tai Po Fire Aftermath: Demand Group Dissolves After Arrest, Petition Halts

    Following the devastating five-alarm Wang Fuk Court residential fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong, which tragically claimed at least 128 lives and injured 83 others on November 26, 2025, a rapidly organized resident advocacy group abruptly ceased operations after police detained one of its purported leaders. The online entity, known as the “Wang Fuk Court Fire Concern Group,” had published four significant community demands and launched a public petition, which was subsequently removed today, November 29, 2025, alongside the group’s social media presence.

    Community Response and Activism

    The catastrophic blaze, one of the deadliest in recent Hong Kong history, has galvanized city-wide attention and profound grief. In the days following the event, mourners have established a makeshift tribute site at the neighboring Kwong Fuk Estate, silently bowing as they lay floral tributes for the victims.

    Amidst the sorrow, the self-styled Concern Group mobilized swiftly, outlining key public actions they believed necessary for survivors and the wider community. Their platform focused on comprehensive support and accountability, specifically requesting:

    • Immediate and proper rehousing and sustained welfare support for all displaced and affected survivors.
    • An independent investigation into allegations of improper benefit transfers connected to recent construction or maintenance works at the building.
    • A rigorous review of the government’s existing construction oversight and mandatory building inspection regimes.
    • Formation of an independent commission of inquiry to ensure comprehensive accountability across all levels.

    Leaflets detailing these four demands were reportedly circulated near the Tai Po Market Station on the evening of November 28. The associated online petition quickly gathered momentum, securing over 10,000 signatures before it was taken offline today.

    Police Action Halts Advocacy

    Sources confirm that police detained a man today who is understood to be one of the founders or primary organizers of the short-lived advocacy group, taking him to a police station for processing. The specifics regarding the grounds for the individual’s detention have not been officially disclosed.

    Immediately following the action, the Concern Group dissolved its public presence. Both the online petition, which had surpassed the 10,000 signature mark, and the group’s social media platforms were deactivated, effectively silencing the organized community lobbying effort.

    Focus Shifts to Official Inquiry

    The immediate suppression of the non-governmental advocacy effort highlights the sensitivity and high stakes surrounding the ongoing official investigations into the cause of the deadly fire and the structural or regulatory failures that may have contributed to the immense casualty count.

    While the community advocates made specific calls for an independent commission, authorities are expected to proceed with established government inquiry procedures. The focus will now fall on official channels to provide transparent findings regarding the building’s condition, maintenance history, any alleged corruption, and the emergency response protocols. For the displaced residents and bereaved families, securing long-term housing solutions and adequate compensation remains an immediate and urgent necessity. The speed and scope of the official support offered will be closely scrutinized by a city still reeling from the tragedy.

  • Hong Kong Fire Aftermath: Officials Establish Center to Identify Victims

    Following the devastating five-alarm Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong, authorities have initiated a critical identification process to assist relatives searching for missing loved ones. The specialized center, situated at the Tai Po Community Hall, opened today, November 29, 2025, offering a structured environment for affected families to view identification photographs and seek crucial information regarding the deceased and missing.

    The massive blaze resulted in a tragic loss of life, and officials estimate that roughly 200 residents remain unaccounted for as recovery efforts continue. In response to the growing anguish of families awaiting news, the Hong Kong Police Force established the identification facility to facilitate a formal, compassionate process aimed at confirming victims’ identities.

    Identification Protocol and Support Services

    Upon arrival at the Tai Po Community Hall, individuals wishing to confirm the identity of a missing person must adhere to a strict protocol designed to ensure the integrity of the process and provide necessary support.

    Steps for Relatives:

    • Registration: Visitors must register their presence using valid identity documents.
    • Relationship Affirmation: Individuals are required to formally state their relationship with the missing resident.
    • Photo Review: Authorities provide identification photographs to assist relatives in recognizing the missing or deceased.

    This structured approach is vital for matching fragmented residential records with familial knowledge, a difficult but necessary step following a large-scale disaster.

    Recognizing the extreme distress experienced by attendees, comprehensive support systems have been integrated into the identification center. Professional social workers are present on-site to offer immediate counseling, psychological first aid, and long-term assistance referrals to family members navigating profound grief and uncertainty. These support services are essential for managing the emotional toll inherent in disaster victim identification.

    Context of the Tai Po Tragedy

    The five-alarm classification denotes a grave incident requiring maximum mobilization of emergency services, underscoring the severity of the fire at Wang Fuk Court. While details regarding the cause of the fire and the timeline of the investigation are ongoing, the immediate focus remains on humanitarian efforts: securing the site, supporting the displaced, and formally identifying those who perished.

    The establishment of the identification center marks a transition from immediate emergency response to long-term recovery and closure for the Tai Po community. The collaboration between the police, government agencies, and social services signifies a coordinated effort to address the complex needs arising from this urban tragedy.

    For families unable to reach the center immediately or requiring additional resources, community hotlines and dedicated government websites are expected to disseminate updates regarding the disaster and available support services. This coordinated effort aims to provide clarity and comfort during this period of immense loss.

  • Community Mourns: Hong Kong Firefighter Dies Following Tragic Tai Po Inferno

    The tragic No. 5 alarm fire that ravaged Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po earlier this week has claimed the life of a dedicated rescue worker, bringing the overall death toll of the devastating incident to at least 128 people. On November 29, 2025, the community and the Fire Services Department (FSD) mourned 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who perished while attempting to save residents trapped in the high-rise blaze. Ho, who served at the Sha Tin Fire Station, was honored this morning with a solemn ceremony where the station flag flew at half-mast, followed by a moment of silent reflection.

    The catastrophic event, which escalated to the second-highest alarm level, demanded immediate and intense emergency response. Firefighter Ho Wai-ho was deployed to the scene on November 26, arriving at Wang Fuk Court shortly after 3:00 p.m. as part of a Light Rescue Unit. Reports indicate that Ho immediately began crucial search and rescue operations on the ground levels of the building. His dedicated efforts were cut short around 3:30 p.m. when communication was lost. A search team located the firefighter approximately 30 minutes later in an open area outside Wang Cheung House, suffering from severe facial burns. He was immediately transported to Prince of Wales Hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries.

    Mobilizing Support for a Hero’s Family

    In the wake of this profound loss, the FSD has launched a public fundraising appeal to provide financial assistance and support to Ho’s devastated family. The department is coordinating efforts to ensure the family of the fallen hero receives crucial aid following his sacrifice.

    Members of the public wishing to contribute may utilize the following verified methods:

    Direct Bank Deposit:
    Donations can be made directly into the account of Ho’s father, Mr. HO SHING, at the Chiyu Banking Corporation.

    • Bank: Chiyu Banking Corporation
    • Account Name: HO SHING
    • Account Number: 039-744-1-039365-9

    Cheque Donation:
    Alternatively, contributions can be made via cheque, payable to “HO SHING.” These cheques should be marked with the donor’s name, contact number, and return address on the reverse side to facilitate receipt processing.

    Cheques should be sent or delivered in person to:

    Fire Services Department (Welfare and Building Management)
    11/F, South Wing, Fire Services Headquarters Building
    1 Hok Cheung Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon
    (Attention: Mr WONG Hon-kiu)

    Upon completion of the requisite administrative steps, the FSD confirms that official receipts will be issued and mailed to donors.

    Honoring the Sacrifice

    Firefighter Ho Wai-ho is one of more than a hundred casualties resulting from the catastrophic Tai Po fire. His death serves as a painful reminder of the inherent dangers faced daily by first responders who risk their lives to protect the community. The swift public response and the official fundraising campaign underscore the deep gratitude and solidarity felt for those who demonstrate unwavering commitment to public safety. The FSD encourages continuous support for the families of all victims affected by this immense tragedy, highlighting the long-term emotional and financial assistance required in periods of profound loss like this.