2 fire service contractors linked to Tai Po tragedy still running, open to new contracts
Two Hong Kong fire service contractors linked to alleged malpractice in the city’s deadliest blaze in decades are still in business and remain open to taking on new contracts, the South China Morning Post has learned, as lawmakers raised concerns over public safety and potential project abandonment. While enforcement actions against the two companies have yet to be completed eight months after…
Two fire service contractors in Hong Kong, linked to alleged negligence in the city's deadliest blaze in decades, are still operating and open to new contracts, according to recent reports. Despite enforcement actions, the Fire Services Department has yet to complete investigations eight months after the incident, and has not indicated a specific timeline.
The investigation into the November fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po revealed that both firms, China Status Development and Engineering, and Victory Fire Engineering, played roles in deactivating the building's fire alarm and hose reel systems. Recent inquiries by an SCMP reporter revealed that Victory Fire stated it would accept new contracts for annual inspections and equipment replacement, while China Status said it would still undertake new orders for firefighting equipment replacements.
Despite the ongoing investigation, both companies remain licensed as fire service installation contractors on the department's website. Lawmakers have expressed concerns over public safety and potential project delays, with some calling for a temporary suspension of contractors under investigation to ensure existing work is completed before new contracts are accepted.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
