Early this afternoon, a massive fire ripped through the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong. By 4 p.m. today, officials confirmed the blaze has tragically claimed 156 lives, with around 30 residents still unaccounted for 💔.
On Tuesday, the Hong Kong Police Force announced that 15 people – 14 men and one woman aged between 40 and 77 – have been detained on suspicion of manslaughter. All detainees are linked to the maintenance engineering firm responsible for the building's safety systems. Authorities warn more arrests could follow as the investigation unfolds.
Local communities across the region are reeling from the scale of the tragedy. Many young professionals, like those living in nearby Tai Po Market, have been organizing support drives to help affected families, from donation hubs to counselling services 🙏.
Why it matters: this incident shines a harsh light on the importance of regular safety checks and transparent maintenance in high-density housing. Experts say robust protocols and accountability are key to preventing such disasters.
What's next: investigators will review maintenance records, interview witnesses, and work with fire safety experts to piece together how the blaze spread so rapidly. In the meantime, residents are urged to stay alert and report any safety concerns immediately.
Stay tuned for updates as the story develops.
Reference(s):
15 detained over manslaughter in residential fire, more arrests likely
cgtn.com
