34 Hongkongers in Taiwan safe and sound after 7.2 magnitude quake

A total of 34 Hongkongers in Taiwan have sought help from the Immigration Department and confirmed that they are safe and sound as of 8 am on Thursday, a day after the island was hit by the strongest quake in 25 years. 

The department said it immediately reached out to the relevant government departments, the Travel Industry Authority and the Travel Industry Council to better understand the latest situation upon learning of the incident. 

The department said it will maintain close communication with affected Hongkongers and relevant bodies to closely monitor the development and provide assistance when necessary. 

Citizens traveling overseas who need help can contact the department’s Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit via its round-the-clock hotline +852 1868. 

The public can also use the department’s mobile app to facilitate the call using mobile data or talk to the dedicated 1868 chatbot, send messages to the hotline on Whatsapp or WeChat, and submit an online form to ask for assistance. 

The 7.2 magnitude earthquake in eastern county of Hualien has killed at least nine people, with 1,050 injuries reported as of Thursday morning, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency.