A couple has been killed and 17 others injured in a bus accident involving a Hong Kong tourist group in Guilin, Guangxi. The Immigration Department has set up an enquiry hotline, 2829 3010, and sent two officers to the scene to offer help.

Acting Chief Executive Henry Tang is deeply grieved to learn of the accident and extends his deepest sympathy and condolences to the two victims and their families.

Mr Tang said the Immigration Department will render all practicable support and assistance to the victims of the traffic accident and their families, and is confident in the department's knowledge, experience and professionalism, adding the Government will make every practicable effort to assist those in need.

Briefing the media on the accident this afternoon, Immigration Department's Assistant Director David Chiu said the Security Bureau, after receiving the report from the Tourism Industry Council at 12.40pm, immediately activated the mechanism of assisting Hong Kong residents outside Hong Kong.

2 officers sent to scene

He said two immigration officers had taken the 5.50pm flight to Guilin to offer assistance to the injured and help with identity verification.

Mr Chiu said the Office of the Hong Kong Government in Beijing has been contacted and an immigration officer from that office will be sent to the scene this evening, adding representatives from the travel agency and insurance company will also attend the scene to offer assistance.

He pointed out at around 10.10am today, the tourist bus reportedly plunged down a four-metre slope in misty and rainy weather. All 19 passengers on board were injured and they were sent to two local hospitals for treatment.

9 people still in hospital

Mr Chiu said the two deceased are a couple, aged 43 and 34. At present, nine people are still in hospital, with one suffering from serious head injuries and others mainly suffering broken bones. Eight others have been discharged.

He said as  two children of the deceased  were also injured, the Social Welfare Department will see whether assistance is needed.

Mr Chiu said the travel agency also arranged a private medical team in Guilin to offer asssistance, while the  Health, Welfare & Food Bureau and Hospital Authority will closely liaise with the team to offer help when necessary.