Hong Kong remains in mourning following one of the deadliest fires in the city's recent history, as authorities confirm 128 people have died with approximately 150 still missing after flames engulfed a residential complex in the Tai Po district.
Arrests and Growing Tensions
The devastating blaze at Wang Fuk Court has sparked public outrage and led to multiple arrests. Police have detained 11 people in connection with the fire as they investigate possible corruption and the use of unsafe materials during renovations.
Among those arrested was 24-year-old university student Miles Kwan, who was taken into custody on Saturday on suspicion of attempting to incite sedition related to the tragedy. The arrest occurred as Kwan participated in a group petition demanding government accountability and an independent investigation.
The online petition gathered over 10,000 signatures before being closed, reflecting growing public demand for answers about the circumstances surrounding the deadly fire.
Beijing's Warning and Security Concerns
China's national security authorities issued a stern warning on Saturday against attempts to use the disaster to disrupt Hong Kong. "We sternly warn the anti-China disruptors who attempt to 'disrupt Hong Kong through disaster'. No matter what methods you use, you will certainly be held accountable and strictly punished under the Hong Kong national security law," the statement read.
Authorities remain particularly sensitive to potential public backlash, memories of the 2019 pro-democracy protests still fresh. The government has launched both criminal and corruption investigations into the fire.
Fire Safety Failures Revealed
Investigators have confirmed that fire alarms at the Wang Fuk Court estate were not working properly when the blaze broke out on Wednesday afternoon. The complex, home to over 4,600 people, was undergoing renovations that included bamboo scaffolding wrapped in green mesh and foam insulation.
Residents had previously raised concerns about fire hazards in September 2024, specifically mentioning the potential flammability of the protective green mesh covering the scaffolding. Despite these warnings, the Labour Department had told residents last year they faced "relatively low fire risks."
The fire rapidly spread through seven of the eight 32-storey blocks at the complex, creating one of Hong Kong's worst tragedies since 1948 when 176 people died in a warehouse blaze.
Rescue operations officially concluded on Friday, though police acknowledge they may discover more victims as they continue searching the hazardous, burnt-out structures in the coming weeks. During recent searches, hundreds of officers found no additional bodies but rescued three cats and a turtle.
As the community grieves, donations have poured in from corporations and community groups to assist victims and their families. The tragedy has left Hong Kong grappling with questions about building safety, regulatory oversight, and the proper balance between security concerns and public accountability.
