New Details Revealed in Fatal Ferry Disaster Inquiry as Testimonies Unfold

Passengers on the Lamma II, another Hong Kong Electric (HKE) vessel, have been testifying at a Commission of Inquiry into the Hong Kong ferry disaster that claimed 39 lives. 

HKE crewmembers said passengers saw the Lamma IV sinking and asked the captain to sail closer for rescue. Seventeen were saved.

Another passenger said no safety instruction was given by the crewmembers when the passengers were on board. However, HKE reportedly has seminars to discuss safety issues, including emergency routes and safety kits, with the staff every quarter.

Another ferry abnormally turned away when the Lamma IV was sinking six minutes after Lamma II left the pier, according to inquiry reports.