Hong Kong’s National Security Department has made its first publicly confirmed arrest in connection with social media commentary surrounding the catastrophic Wang Fuk Court housing complex fire that claimed 159 lives last month. The 71-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Saturday for allegedly publishing “information with seditious intention” targeting both Hong Kong and central Chinese governments.
Chief Superintendent Steve Li of the National Security Department stated the individual stands accused of exploiting the November 26 tragedy to incite social unrest through inflammatory online content. “He pointed to the Hong Kong and the central governments as instigators of exploiting the tragedy to cause chaos and turmoil,” Li told reporters, characterizing such claims as “totally impossible.”
The arrest represents the intersection of two parallel investigations: one examining the fire’s causes and another addressing perceived threats to national security. Authorities have additionally charged the man with improperly disclosing details from an ongoing national security investigation after he allegedly shared confidential information online despite explicit warnings.
The devastating blaze has ignited complex debates about governmental accountability and building safety standards. Forensic analysis indicates substandard construction materials—particularly flammable green netting and foam board window installations—contributed to the fire’s rapid spread through seven of the complex’s eight towers. At least 21 individuals have been detained in connection with suspected corruption and negligence related to ongoing renovation work.
This law enforcement action occurs against a politically charged backdrop, with officials warning against using the tragedy to undermine governmental authority. The arrest coincides with Hong Kong’s legislative elections, which feature no opposition candidates following political vetting processes implemented after the 2019 pro-democracy protests. Chief Executive John Lee has pledged decisive action against those attempting to “sabotage the commitment of society” through the exploitation of tragic events.