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Vessel collision incident near Lamma Island
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     A vessel collision incident involving two passenger vessels occurred at the seafront of Lamma Island last night (October 1).

     Fire Services Department (FSD) received the call at 8.23pm and arrived at scene at 8.41pm. FSD has deployed seven fire boats (including one diving support vessel), mobilised 210 members (including fire and ambulance personnel) and over 20 ambulances (including ambulances from St John Ambulance and Auxiliary Medical Service).

     As at 3am today (October 2), FSD has rescued 123 passengers from the sinking vessel. Among them, 17 were certified dead at scene while eight others were certified dead upon arrival of hospitals. Over 100 people were sent to five hospitals during the incident, nine of them have sustained serious injuries or are in critical condition.

     FSD said the vessel, with over 120 passengers reportedly on board, sunk quickly after the collision. The low visibility and many obstacles on board also made it difficult for rescue.

     Rescue action will continue overnight as FSD cannot rule out that there are still people inside the vessel or missing. Those who suspected that their relatives are missing in the incident can call the Police enquiry hotline 1878 999.

     Marine Police and Marine Department have deployed 15 and six vessels respectively while Government Flying Service has sent out two helicopters to help rescue during the incident.

Ends/Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Issued at HKT 05:40

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