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<P><B>A Fabricated Conflict?</B>
<P>International Associated Press - Hong Kong Edition
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<P>The aftermath of the terrorist attack in Shenzhen has taken a violent turn. The Chinese authorities have announced that the initial investigation results highly indicate that the attacks were planned in Hong Kong. Suggestions of Triad involvement in the attacks have enflamed the situation even further. In Hong Kong, these allegations are seen as a flimsy excuse from the mainland authorities to interfere with the city's autonomy, which many interpreted to have been only barely reinforced in the Agreement of 2046.
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<P>The MPS' presence has not succeeded in decreasing tension in the area, and TV reports speculating on possible Triad involvement led into reactionary attacks against the MPS headquarters in the city. PRC authorities have explained this in their investigation reports, claiming the attacks were carried out by terrorists with hefty international connections. PRC's move to resort to officially requesting U.N. assistance in the case has been seen as an effort to try to emphasize the possible international aspects of the attack instead of more immediate local connections. 
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<P>The appearance of Robert Chen, the director of the Counter-Terrorism Department of the Ministry of Public Security in Hong Kong, at a vigil for the Shenzhen victims led into mixed reception. Some suggested it was a "political show", and said that his presence might have actually been detrimental to the situation, possibly adding more fire into the heated discussion. Chen has also been criticized for his involvement in asking help from Mainland China through the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government, despite the abundance of manpower and resources already in Hong Kong. Many saw this as increased influence and reliance on the Chinese government, a change from the previous administration.
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<P>In response to these accusations, Chen has reminded people that the Chinese authorities came to the realization that the international facets in the investigation cannot be understated. Despite leaving the organization in the 2030s, the UN's recently formed anti-terrorist organization, UNATCO, has agreed to give assistance to the Chinese in a surprising move that has baffled both diplomats and civilians alike. However, the press is not currently aware of the exact nature of the help UNATCO will offer to the Chinese.