Overview
- Authorities started removing condolence messages and flowers on the night of December 7, according to Hong Kong media and Kyodo reports.
- The notes, posted on benches near the fire site, included phrases of mourning as well as direct criticism of officials.
- Volunteers said some of the collected messages will be preserved and given to bereaved families.
- Bouquets that had filled a corner of the park were also slated for clearance as part of the operation.
- Reporters and observers described the removal as an effort to contain dissatisfaction with authorities, with no detailed official justification cited.