DoJ pledges legal guidance in fatal Tai Po fire probe

The Department of Justice (DoJ) will work closely with the police and Fire Services Department to provide urgent guidance on evidence collection, professional judgment and legal matters following the fatal fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, pledged Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok. 

Lam expressed his deepest condolences to the deceased and the fallen firefighter on social media on Thursday. He also extended sincere sympathies to the families of the victims and all those injured. 

Lam thanked the frontline firefighters, paramedics, police, staff from the Home Affairs Department, and other departments, acknowledging their tireless efforts at the scene throughout the night. 

He praised the swift response from various sectors of society, showcasing Hong Kong’s unity during difficult times. 

He noted that the Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has announced a comprehensive investigation into the fire incident involving the police, the Fire Services Department (FSD), and the Housing Bureau. 

The DOJ will maintain close communication with these departments to ensure the investigation proceeds in an orderly and lawful manner, he said. 

It will also actively collaborate with other bureaus to manage the civil legal work related to the subsequent actions, ensuring that all relevant issues are properly addressed, he added.