Following the devastating No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on November 26, which resulted in over 100 casualties and injuries, Hong Kong authorities have intensified their investigation, focusing on actions related to the incident’s aftermath. The escalating inquiry has led to the detention of three individuals, including a former elected official and a volunteer, under suspicion of offenses related to national security.
The arrests stem from online activities and public responses following the tragedy. The first arrest was made on November 29, involving a man suspected of “seditious intent” connected to an online petition related to the fire. The social media platform associated with the petition was subsequently deactivated.
Former District Councillor Detained
On Sunday, November 30, two additional detentions were reported. Kenneth Cheung, a former Tuen Mun District Councillor, was reportedly arrested by officers from the Police National Security Department at his Fanling residence around 7 p.m.
Public records reviewed shortly before his reported detention indicated Cheung remained active online. At approximately 6:30 p.m. that evening, his social media activity included sharing a news item about Japanese singer Ayumi Hamasaki. Crucially, moments later, he reposted a media report detailing the arrest of the individual who had started the online petition concerning the Tai Po investigation.
Separately, a woman identified by the surname Lee was also taken into custody. Sources indicate Ms. Lee was working as a volunteer at the scene of the Wang Fuk Court fire and was apprehended in connection with the ongoing probe.
Law Enforcement Takes Action
Police have maintained that any legal action taken would be strictly “in accordance with the law.” The focus on national security-related offenses in this case underscores the heightened scrutiny authorities are placing on public discourse surrounding major civic incidents. While the initial fire was a devastating accident, the subsequent arrests suggest a zero-tolerance approach toward activities perceived to undermine stability or incite unrest following a catastrophe.
The use of the National Security Department in these operations signals the seriousness with which authorities view the online petitions and public commentary. Critics argue the broad interpretation of “seditious intent” risks stifling legitimate public inquiry and mourning, while proponents emphasize the need to prevent the exploitation of tragic events for political purposes.
The arrests of a former public figure and an involved volunteer in the immediate aftermath of a massive tragedy send a clear message regarding the boundaries of online expression and public mobilization in Hong Kong. As the investigation continues, these detentions will likely fuel further debate regarding the balance between freedom of expression and national security mandates. The names of those detained have not been officially confirmed by police, nor have specific charges been publicly detailed at the time of reporting.