Hong Kong police arrest 2 men, seize chemicals capable of producing powerful explosives, with anti-government fliers also among haul
But he added that preliminary investigation indicated that the two suspects did not have specific plans or targets. Their arrests come a week before the district council election on Sunday.
A source familiar with the case said the initial investigation suggested the suspects were not linked to any political groups and had no criminal records.
Police intercepted the two men, aged 33 and 34, near Nam Fung Road in Wong Chuk Hang on Sunday afternoon. Officers seized an axe, a sickle and a hammer allegedly in their possession.
During the investigation, police subsequently discovered a hole on a nearby hillside.
“The hole, measuring one metre by half a metre, and half a metre deep, was covered by wooden boards and camouflage waterproof sheets,” Wong said.
“Inside the pit, police found a batch of home-made incendiary tools, including a home-made furnace, metal containers with chimneys, 1kg of chemicals and storage containers.”
The chief inspector said officers also found a site near the pit that had apparently been used for combustion and explosive experiments, with police also discovering used chemical packaging bags.
“After a preliminary examination by officers from the force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau, it is believed the chemicals found at the scene include chemical raw materials that can be used to manufacture home-made explosives,” he said.
Police then raided the homes of the two men in Ap Lei Chau and Chai Wan on the same day.
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During the raids, officers seized about 30kg of various types of chemicals, electronic scales, laboratory apparatus as well as notes related to the production of explosives and chemicals.
“Some of the chemical raw materials can be used to manufacture two different types of home-made explosives such as TATP [triacetone triperoxide],” Wong said.
The two men were detained on suspicion of manufacturing and possessing explosives – offences punishable by up to 14 years in jail.
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As of Tuesday morning, the two suspects were still in custody. Police said the investigation was ongoing and further arrests were possible.
“This operation shows that there are still troublemakers in Hong Kong who persist in their disruptive activities in an attempt to disturb the city,” Wong said, adding that police would take resolute action to combat illegal activities and ensure the safety of the public.
The force also reminded residents to report any suspicious incidents.