Coroner Monica Chow Wai-cho stated that the decision by the builder of Lamma IV to exclude a watertight door was a calculated choice rather than a simple oversight. However, she described the resulting deaths as "unlawful." This conclusion came in the context of an inquiry into the incident, which claimed the lives of several passengers.
Court documents indicated that a director at Cheoy Lee Shipyards, the company responsible for constructing Lamma IV, opted to include a hatch between the ferry’s two stern compartments but chose not to install a watertight door. Initially, this omission was thought to have played a significant role in allowing water to enter the vessel, ultimately trapping individuals aboard as it sank after colliding with another vessel.
The families of the victims have voiced their disappointment regarding the court’s findings. They believe that critical design flaws related to the ferry are being ignored, which they perceive as part of a wider cover-up.
In light of these developments, the families are now contemplating their next actions as they seek accountability for the tragic event. They have communicated their intention to pursue further avenues for justice regarding the incident.
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