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Hong Kong police arrest man over arson at karaoke bar in 1997 that killed 17 people

Suspect, 52, arrested upon return to Hong Kong after being intercepted by mainland Chinese authorities, police say

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The suspect is taken to Prat Avenue in Tsim Sha Tsui to reconstruct the crime. Photo: Handout

Hong Kong police have arrested a 52-year-old man over arson at a karaoke bar that killed 17 people nearly 30 years ago after he was intercepted by mainland Chinese authorities.

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Police said on Friday the force was notified by mainland law enforcement on Wednesday of the interception of the suspect, who was then arrested upon his return to Hong Kong via the Shenzhen Bay port a day later.

The fire at Top One Karaoke in Tsim Sha Tsui. Photo: Handout
The fire at Top One Karaoke in Tsim Sha Tsui. Photo: Handout

Superintendent Lam Kai-chor said evidence indicated the suspect, who was 25 at the time of the crime, had a significant involvement in the case and he would be prosecuted.

The suspect was earlier taken to Prat Avenue in Tsim Sha Tsui to reconstruct the crime.

Lam said another fugitive, 47-year-old Chan Fok-ching, was still wanted, and police were offering a HK$400,000 (US$51,395) reward for information leading to his arrest.

Chan Fok-ching, 47, is also wanted by police in connection with the arson attack. Photo: Handout
Chan Fok-ching, 47, is also wanted by police in connection with the arson attack. Photo: Handout

“The police have been sparing no effort to combat triads and organised criminal activities,” he said.

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