At least 128 people have been confirmed dead after a catastrophic fire tore through a Hong Kong residential complex, marking the city's most lethal blaze in almost eight decades.
A Desperate Rescue Operation
The fire broke out on external bamboo scaffolding surrounding the Wang Fuk Court apartment building. It spread with terrifying speed, forcing almost 900 residents from their homes.
Firefighters battled extreme heat and collapsing scaffolding in a desperate search for survivors trapped inside the flats. Hong Kong Security Chief Chris Tang confirmed the grim toll and stated that rescue efforts have now concluded.
Tragically, the fire service suffered its own loss. Firefighter Ho Wai Ho, 37, died while courageously rescuing residents. He has been posthumously honoured for his bravery and selfless service.
Arrests and Investigation Underway
In a significant development, police have made arrests in connection with the disaster. Two directors and an engineering consultant from Prestige Construction have been taken into custody on suspicion of manslaughter.
The authorities allege that the use of unsafe building materials was a key factor that contributed to the fire's rapid and uncontrolled spread through the complex.
Community in Mourning
With approximately 200 individuals still unaccounted for, the community is facing a period of profound grief and uncertainty. This tragedy at Wang Fuk Court has left a deep scar, being the deadliest fire Hong Kong has witnessed in nearly 80 years.
