HONG KONG — A 12-year-old boy was arrested in Hong Kong for allegedly attempting to manufacture explosives, police said on Tuesday.
The boy, a Form One student, is suspected of carrying out a chemical experiment in Tseung Kwan O on May 3 in an attempt to produce explosives. Police also said he posted a video of the incident online. He remains in custody pending further investigation.
The case began after police received a report about video clips showing the chemical experiment. In the videos, the individual claimed to be making a bomb and suggested that the explosive had already been successfully created.
Police said that although the boy conducted the experiment under a bridge, the location was close to a public rest area and a jogging path.
ALSO READ: Hong Kong extends tax break for Wang Fuk Court residents
“Fortunately, the incident resulted in no injuries or property damage. However, had the experiment gotten out of control, the consequences could have been catastrophic,” said Choi Ting-kwong, acting chief inspector of the Hong Kong Police Force.
According to police, the boy was not wearing any protective gear during the experiment. He allegedly disregarded his own safety and that of others by conducting explosive-related experiments in a public area.
The police reminded the public that manufacturing explosives is a serious offense.