CK ASSET(01113) 华夏时报· Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-05-28 13:27Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is investigating a corruption case involving a residential development project by Cheung Kong Property Holdings Limited, led by Li Ka-shing, due to allegations of bribery and falsification of construction records [2][3][4]. Group 1: Project Details - The implicated project is located at Anderson Road in Kwun Tong, developed by Cheung Kong Property, which acquired the land for HKD 49.5 billion in May 2020 [2][6]. - The project plans to construct six buildings with nearly 3,000 residential units, with at least 1,000 units to be sold at a 20% discount for first-time homebuyers [2][6]. - The project is part of the Hong Kong government's initiative to assist permanent residents in achieving home ownership [6][7]. Group 2: Corruption Allegations - The ICAC's investigation revealed that a subcontractor allegedly deviated from approved engineering designs to save costs and bribed supervisory personnel to overlook these deviations [3][4]. - The subcontractor reportedly provided bribes, gifts, and covered luxury entertainment expenses for the supervisory staff to ensure lenient oversight of the construction work [3][4]. - A total of 10 individuals, aged between 29 and 52, have been arrested in connection with the case, facing charges of bribery, conspiracy to defraud, and use of false documents [4][5]. Group 3: Regulatory Context - Registered contractors and building professionals have a legal responsibility for the quality and safety of construction work, which includes verifying compliance with approved designs [3][4]. - The ICAC has previously dealt with multiple construction-related fraud cases, indicating a broader issue within the industry [5]. Group 4: Project Timeline and Compliance - The land sale agreement stipulates that the project must be completed by March 31, 2026 [8]. - Cheung Kong Property has stated that it is reviewing the project's engineering status and is in discussions with the Buildings Department regarding appropriate follow-up actions [8].