Some renovation workers at inferno-hit Wang Fuk Court on Monday said tightened security measures can help safeguard workers and flat owners.

The measures came after three workers were arrested for allegedly stealing jewellery from a unit of the estate.

Workers are now required to put their personal belongings and cash into lockers, before being escorted by police officers, who will enter flats beforehand to check for valuable items.

They are also subject to a body search with metal detectors after their work is done to prevent theft.

A worker, Wong, said the new measures are acceptable.

"We're just working, so the measures are alright. A body search is a must-do, given that we're working inside someone's flat. We have to put down your own stuff before going into the flat, it's just to protect ourselves and others," he said.

But another worker, Chan, said theft is uncommon at construction sites.

"I rarely see any stealing at sites, so it seems a bit excessive to enhance security just because of the incident earlier, given that everyone needs to do a body search," he said.

"But I think it's still acceptable as it just serves the purpose of a security check," he added.

Meanwhile, flat owner Au Yeung said he walks around the estate each day and sees a lot of strangers coming and going.

"Will you let a stranger go into your house? The authorities should have let us go into our flats and collect our belongings before the workers come in and work. Who can we blame now if we lose anything?" he said.

"Why don't they tighten security and let us go in three months ago? If they let us in and grab our valuable items, the workers could have done their work however they like without receiving any complaints," he added.


Edited by Aaron Tam