HONG KONG – Marine police and emergency services are investigating two separate incidents involving the recovery of human remains from coastal waters on Sunday afternoon. The discoveries, which occurred near Shek Kwu Chau and Lamma Island, prompted immediate action from authorities as they work to identify the deceased and ascertain the circumstances of their deaths.
The first recovery took place around 2:20 p.m. off the coast of Shek Kwu Chau, located south of Lantau Island. A member of the public reported spotting a body floating in the water approximately two kilometers offshore. Marine rescue units were dispatched to the location and successfully retrieved the remains. Authorities confirmed the deceased was female. The body was subsequently transferred to the Cheung Chau Pier to commence the identification process and formal post-mortem procedures.
Less than an hour and a half later, at 3:39 p.m., a second incident was flagged along Lamma Island’s shoreline. Residents near Shek Pai Wan alerted police after finding a deceased individual roughly 20 meters from the coast. Emergency personnel secured the scene and recovered the body, which was tentatively identified as an elderly man, estimated to be in his sixties.
The male victim was reportedly clothed in a white shirt, black trousers, and black shoes when found. His remains were transported to the Mo Tat Public Pier for processing.
Investigation Underway to Determine Circumstances
Law enforcement officials have launched parallel investigations into both cases. The immediate priority is establishing the identities of the deceased. This typically involves cross-referencing descriptions with missing persons reports, using fingerprints, or DNA analysis if necessary.
While the causes of death remain undetermined, police are systematically exploring several possibilities, including accidental drowning, underlying medical conditions, or foul play. The close timeframe of the discoveries, though geographically separated, necessitates a thorough examination of whether the deaths could be related or if they represent isolated incidents. The investigation will encompass a review of maritime traffic logs, local currents, and coastline patrols in the areas where the bodies were found.
Broader Context: Coastal Safety and Procedures
Discoveries of bodies in Hong Kong’s high-traffic maritime areas, while relatively rare, trigger stringent police protocols. Retrieval operations involve coordination between Fire Services Department divers, Marine Police, and forensic services. For residents living along the islands, being aware of coastal safety and how to report discoveries is crucial.
Anyone with information concerning either the female discovered near Shek Kwu Chau or the male found near Lamma Island is urged to contact the police immediately. Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance as they attempt to bring clarity to these two sudden and tragic deaths in Hong Kong waters. The conclusion of forensic examinations, including toxicology and medical autopsies, will be essential in providing a comprehensive understanding of what happened.