MTRC tries to quell panic over Net hoax

Police computer experts are searching for a hoaxer who sent a bogus e-mail report saying the Health Department had discovered the deadly atypical pneumonia virus in air filters on MTR trains.

Officers from the Commercial Crime Bureau's technology crime division are investigating the case after the Mass Transit Rail Corporation (MTRC) notified police about the rumours on Friday.

The rumours also forced the MTRC to issue a press release denying the claims and highlighting the precautionary measures it had taken against the virus.

Operations director Phil Gaffney said in the statement that the director of health had confirmed no tests for severe acute respiratory syndrome had been conducted on MTR trains.

'The allegation is absolutely without foundation. The spreading of rumours such as this at this time is wholly irresponsible. We have reported the case to police for their investigation and further action,' he said.

The MTRC said that since March 15, it had changed the operation mode of the ventilation system in MTR stations so more fresh air is pumped in. It said additional staff had also been sent to regularly inspect ventilation systems on trains.