Three Construction Officials Arrested After Hong Kong Fire
Hong Kong police have arrested three construction officials — two company directors and an engineering consultant — in connection with the massive fire that swept through the Wang Fuk Court high-rise complex in Tai Po. The blaze has so far claimed 44 lives and left more than 200 residents missing, marking one of the city’s worst fire disasters in decades.
Investigation Points To Negligence
Authorities say the fire appears to have started in bamboo scaffolding and renovation netting surrounding the buildings. The flames spread rapidly due to flammable materials used during maintenance work, including possible foam-based cladding near windows. Police believe negligence in adhering to fire-safety protocols may have contributed to the severity of the incident.
Rescue Efforts Continue Across Multiple Towers
Search-and-rescue teams continue operations across the damaged blocks, deploying dozens of fire engines and emergency personnel. More than 900 residents have been evacuated and placed in temporary shelters. Officials warn that the death toll may rise as rescue teams gain access to sealed-off floors.
Safety Standards Under Scrutiny
The arrests are the first major step in an expanding investigation that is likely to trigger a broader review of Hong Kong’s construction and renovation safety standards. The city’s long-standing use of bamboo scaffolding and external renovation nets — common across high-rise structures — is now under renewed criticism following the tragedy.
