Hong Kong train set alight in 'arson attack'

Part of a Hong Kong subway train was engulfed in smoke today after an apparent arson attack that sent hundreds of rush-hour commuters scrambling for safety and left 14 in hospital.

Several witnesses said the fire was caused by a man who lit something in one of the front carriages of the train.

Ten of the passengers taken to hospital were in stable condition, while four others were discharged, the government said in a statement.

Fire was seen on the train as it rolled into the busy Admiralty station near the heart of the city during the morning rush hour, but the area was quickly evacuated.

Train services were disrupted for about half an hour.