Full Breakdown
Hong Kong Police Arrest Multiple Individuals Over Forged Surveying Equipment Certificates
12/25/2025, 10:36:54 PM
Overview of the Arrests
Hong Kong police have arrested multiple individuals linked to the acoustic and environmental services consultancy Novox, suspected of using surveying equipment with forged certificates in various construction projects. The arrests include two directors and a staff member on December 19, 2023, followed by an additional nine employees apprehended on December 21, 2023. The investigations revealed that the forged certificates were used in at least five hospital expansion projects and a government construction site.
Details of the Allegations
The initial arrests involved two directors and a staff member, aged between 24 and 45, who were detained after police received reports of the use of fake instruments in projects managed by the Urban Renewal Authority (URA). The URA confirmed that Novox provided surveying devices for four projects in To Kwa Wan, with two of these projects confirming the use of equipment with forged certificates. The maximum penalty for such offenses could reach 14 years’ imprisonment.
Following these arrests, police apprehended nine additional employees from Novox, including six men and three women aged 23 to 48. They are accused of forging at least 45 certificates from four testing centers since 2022. Superintendent Gar Kam-lam noted that the police investigation was initiated after reports from various organizations indicated that a subcontractor had submitted falsified documents. Although authentic certificates were also found during the search, the investigation continues to determine if other forged documents were used in additional projects.
Background of Novox
Founded in 2018, Novox specializes in acoustic and environmental design, claiming to provide consultancy services throughout all phases of project cycles. The company has been involved in several significant projects, including the expansion of Princess Margaret Hospital and other redevelopment projects for Kwong Wah Hospital, Our Lady of Maryknoll Hospital, Grantham Hospital, and North District Hospital. The Hospital Authority reported that five calibration certificates for vibration sensors submitted by Novox for the Princess Margaret Hospital expansion were suspected to be fake, as the issuing company, Guangdong Zhongzhenghang Metrology Testing Co Ltd, denied having issued them.
Criticism and Calls for Reform
The issue of forged certifications has raised serious concerns about construction safety in Hong Kong, particularly in light of recent tragedies, such as the deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court, which claimed at least 161 lives. Medical sector legislator David Lam criticized the construction industry, describing it as “rotten” and highlighting issues such as the hiring of illegal workers and failure to pay staff. The ongoing investigations into Novox have prompted calls for reforms within the construction sector to enhance safety and accountability.
Official Statements
The Hong Kong police have stated that they are committed to thoroughly investigating the allegations against Novox and ensuring accountability for any wrongdoing. The Urban Renewal Authority has also expressed concern over the integrity of the projects involved and is cooperating with law enforcement.
Verbatim Quotes
“He added that police launched an investigation after receiving reports from several organisations alleging that a subcontractor had submitted falsified equipment documents.” — Gar Kam-lam, Superintendent, Kowloon West Regional Crime Headquarters
“The issue of fake certifications has prompted calls to reform Hong Kong’s construction sector.” — David Lam, Medical Sector Legislator
“Criminals are exploiting the massive year-end logistics peak as a ‘smokescreen’ to move illicit goods, hoping the sheer volume of holiday traffic will help them evade detection,” — Lin Kwan-yiu, Senior Investigation Officer, Customs and Excise Department
The investigations into Novox's practices continue, with authorities emphasizing the importance of maintaining safety and integrity in Hong Kong's construction industry.
