Police are actively investigating an arson case in Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station last night (February 10) in which 18 persons were injured.

     At 7.14pm last night, Police received reports that a fire broke out inside the compartment of a Tsim Sha Tsui-bound train from Admiralty.

     The fire was put out by the MTR staff and passengers. A total of 18 persons, comprising 11 women and seven men, aged between 15 and 60, suffered injuries during the incident. They were sent to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kwong Wah Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital and Queen Mary Hospital for medical treatment.

     Police has arrested a 60-year-old local man for Arson and the motive of the act is under investigation. Suspected fire accelerants in liquid form were seized at the scene. Initial investigation revealed that the man set fire due to personal reasons. The man committed the act alone and it was not an organised crime. The mental condition of the arrested person is one of directions of Police’s investigation.

     Initial investigation showed that the incident was not a terrorist attack or attack against public transport system. Active investigation by the District Crime Squad of Yau Tsim District is underway.

     Anyone who might have witnessed the incident or has information to offer is urged to call the District Crime Squad of Yau Tsim District on 3661 9351.

Ends/Saturday, February 11, 2017
Issued at HKT 3:42

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