Officers stated that the three men, aged 32 to 38, were arrested on March 6 and face charges of theft.
The individuals were part of a construction team carrying out reinforcement work inside apartments at Wang Tai House.
The assistant commander of Tai Po district stated that the workers were arrested after seven pieces of jewelry, valued at approximately 90,000 HKD, were discovered in their possession. The items were identified as belonging to the apartments where they were performing work.
"Officers contacted the homeowner, who confirmed ownership of the jewelry", authorities stated.
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A man screams in front of the burning Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Tai Po district, Hong Kong, on 26/11/2025, as his wife was trapped inside. *Reuters* |
The news caused unease among residents of the apartment complex. They demanded that authorities implement stronger security measures at the site and allow them to return soon to retrieve their belongings.
Later the same day, authorities issued a statement indicating they would review measures to enhance property protection for residents at the fire scene.
The Wang Fuk Court apartment complex, operational since 1983 and comprising approximately 2,000 apartments, began burning on the afternoon of 26/11/2025 and continued for about 40 hours. The fire resulted in 160 deaths, making it the most severe fire in Hong Kong in recent decades.
At the time of the disaster, the apartment complex was undergoing renovations, with numerous bamboo scaffolds and safety nets surrounding the buildings. Officials determined the fire started from the external safety nets on the lower floors of the building and quickly spread upwards due to burning foam panels, affecting multiple floors.
Hong Kong police have arrested 11 people on charges of corruption and manslaughter in connection with the renovation project for this apartment complex, valued at 330 million HKD (over 42 million USD).
More than 5,000 people were displaced and are currently receiving support with temporary housing and living allowances.
By Hai Thu (SCMP)
