Audiência de Hongfu Yuan | Há conselheiros operados por gangues; cheio de conluio e corrupção

Big Wave Bay Hong Fuk Court fire independent committee held its second hearing today. Senior barrister representing the committee, Du Gan Kun, stated that based on police observations and reliable intelligence, a small number of Triads have established and are operating consulting firms and construction contracting companies, participating in repair works. Witnesses indicated that there is collusion, corruption, and secret consensus between consultants and contractors, which is a widespread situation.

Du Gan Kun quoted the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) specifically pointing out that registered inspectors play a crucial role before, during, and after the project, making them most susceptible to corruption or improper conduct. Currently, there are 600 registered inspectors registered with the Buildings Department, of whom only 128 have expressed interest in participating in the Mandatory Building Inspection Scheme.

Surveyors fear intimidation and are reluctant to join the building maintenance market

The ICAC mentioned that there is evidence showing some surveyors and architects are unwilling to join the building maintenance market due to fears of intimidation by unscrupulous operators, including Triads and triad members, who believe these projects are “not worth doing.” The ICAC considers this a vicious cycle that needs to be broken, requiring targeted measures to reverse the situation.

Du Gan Kun stated that there are bid-rigging groups in the market with clear operational mechanisms, such as consultants submitting bids far below their actual costs. The way they receive rewards suggests a high likelihood of利益输送.