Hong Kong is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating apartment fire that claimed the lives of at least 156 people and left 30 missing at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po. Authorities are investigating unsafe construction practices, including the use of substandard mesh netting on scaffolding, which contributed to the rapid spread of the blaze.

Chief Executive Vows Justice

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee vowed to “uncover the truth” and “pursue justice” for the victims, announcing the formation of an independent committee led by a judge to investigate the fire’s cause and the speed with which it spread. He promised systematic reforms to prevent similar disasters in the future.

“No matter who is involved, we will get to the bottom of it,” Lee said, emphasizing that accountability would extend to all responsible parties.

Arrests and Investigation

At least 15 people—mostly consultants, contractors, and subcontractors connected to the construction work—have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter by gross negligence, and authorities indicate that more arrests may follow. Investigators are meticulously combing each apartment for victims’ remains, a process complicated by structural damage and ash-reduced bodies.

Officials highlighted the substandard mesh netting wrapping bamboo scaffolding as a major factor in the fire’s rapid spread. Seven of 20 samples tested failed fire safety standards. Polystyrene boards used to block windows during renovations also accelerated the blaze. Hong Kong Secretary for Security Chris Tang and corruption commissioner Woo Ying-ming described contractors’ decisions as “cunning” and prioritizing profit over human life.

Community Mourning and Memorials

Tuesday marked the seventh day after the first deaths, an important day in Chinese tradition when it’s believed the souls of the deceased return home. Hundreds of mourners traveled to the site to lay flowers, fruits, and favorite snacks for their loved ones. Volunteer Sarah Lam noted the importance of memorial efforts, saying, “A lot of people feel hopeless, but they can help us remember them.”

Search and Rescue Efforts

Approximately 600 disaster victim identification specialists have been working methodically through the burnt apartments. Police reported finding bodies in flats, corridors, staircases, and even rooftops. Some buildings remain structurally unsafe, delaying searches in certain towers. Victims included elderly residents, domestic workers from Indonesia and the Philippines, families, construction workers, and a firefighter.

National Security Concerns

In the wake of the tragedy, authorities have expressed concern over potential political exploitation of the incident. Three individuals were arrested in connection with materials promoting an online petition for an independent inquiry, which had gathered over 10,000 signatures before being removed. Chief Executive Lee emphasized that Hong Kong would not tolerate crimes that exploit the tragedy.

Wider Implications

The Wang Fuk Court fire is Hong Kong’s deadliest in decades and underscores the importance of stringent construction safety regulations, proper scaffolding materials, and rigorous oversight of high-rise renovations. Authorities have instructed volunteers to leave the scene and centralized the distribution of aid, requiring coordination through official channels such as WhatsApp for donations.

The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of Hong Kong’s construction practices, fire safety standards, and disaster preparedness, prompting promises of systematic reform to protect residents from future tragedies.