The ICAC arrested a total of eight persons including three Housing Department (HD) site supervising staff in connection with substandard piling works at two Home Ownership Scheme housing blocks in Shatin. The alleged pile shortening scam could have saved millions of dollars to the piling subcontractor.

The persons were rounded up in a territory-wide two-day operation that began on Saturday morning during which 80 ICAC investigators were deployed and 21 search warrants were executed.

The operation was mounted soon after complaints of alleged corruption and conspiracy to defraud reached ICAC after piling tests at the HOS site revealed serious discrepancy. Tests had confirmed that the actual lengths of at least two boring piles were sho rter by 10 to 13 metres than the recorded lengths.

In addition to the three HD staff members including two clerks of works and a works supervisor, ICAC also arrested two directors, a site agent, an assistant engineer and a foreman of the piling subcontractor.

The substandard piling works were founded on two HOS blocks (Block D and E) at Shatin Area 14 B. Each is designed to be supported by 18 large diameter boring piles.

The alleged bribery and conspiracy offences came to light during the construction of superstructures.

ICAC investigations revealed that the coring and vibration tests conducted on the integrity of the piles were alleged to have been manipulated to mislead inspecting staff.

Investigations also pointed to lax site supervision as some inspection forms were alleged signed without carrying actual inspections during foundation works.

ICAC spokesman noted that the Housing Department and a construction contractor, which referred the complaints to the ICAC had offered full co-operation during the investigation.

The eight arrested were being detained for questioning and would be released on bail later tonight.