Hong Kong authorities have filed manslaughter charges against seven people and two companies in connection with a devastating fire at a public housing estate last year that killed 168 people, one of the deadliest residential building fires in decades.
The blaze engulfed seven of eight high-rise blocks at the Wang Fuk Court estate in November, prompting a lengthy investigation. Public hearings revealed that nearly all fire safety measures failed due to human error, including deactivated alarm systems and substandard materials.
Those charged include directors of the construction contractor and a consultant firm, as well as an inspector, along with their companies. According to charge sheets, the defendants face additional accusations of fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion related to renovation work at the estate.
Appearing in court on Wednesday, the defendants indicated they understood the charges. The court also read out the names of all 168 victims, including a firefighter, for the first time in public.
Hong Kong police, working with the city's anti-corruption agency ICAC, have arrested 35 people in total. An ICAC investigator stated that the tragedy may have been caused by individuals acting in self-interest, with utter disregard for resident safety. Police added that the firms are suspected of gross negligence in their duty of care.
Investigators found that fire-retardant netting and cigarette butts were key factors in the fire's rapid spread. Alarm systems in seven of eight blocks had been deactivated, shortening evacuation time. Thousands of residents were displaced and moved to temporary housing.
