Chief Executive Donald Tsang Infuriated Over Acid Attacks

The acid attack happened this time in Yau Mau Tei, on Saturday night, January 9, 2010. Acid rained down on one of  Hong Kong’s most popular attractions, the Temple Street night market in Yau Ma Tei.

Two bottles of corrosive liquid were hurled down from a building top of the junction of Nanking Street and Temple Street at around 9:30 p.m. Two caps were found that fitted the bottles, which were used during the attack.

Acid splashed on dozens of people who were shopping and dining at outdoor eateries along the streets. Thirty people were injured and several of them were tourists. They were sent to Kwong Wah and Queen Elizabeth hospitals to be treated for chemical burns.

Police arrested a 39 year-old man around midnight, releasing him later. The man was identified as one of the residents of the building. Police later admitted that they had the wrong man. The real culprit is still at large and continues to elude the police.

Residents were very concerned because that rooftops are so easy to access for anyone. Also, the buildings have no surveillance cameras and no security guards.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang condemned the attack, which left thirty people injured. Police are offering a $300,000 reward for information. Authorities are considering installing an eye-in-the-sky camera as well.

The people of  Hong Kong have been living under the threat of acid attacks for more than a year now, while police have not been able to figure out who committed the crimes. Very similar attacks have occurred in various locations.

This attack is just one out of a string of attacks that have plagued Hong Kong since the end of 2008. A total of more than a hundred people have been injured, while officials worry about the area’s reputation being damaged.
Source: ATV News