The death toll in the catastrophic fire that tore through a residential building in Hong Kong has risen to 128, confirmed government officials on Friday. Secretary for Security, Chris Tang stated that around 200 people still remain missing and offered his condolences to the bereaved families. He added that at least another 79 people have been injured.
A massive fire erupted in a residential building on Wednesday afternoon. Although rescue operations have formally concluded, authorities cautioned that the situation remains far from resolved. Security Chief Chris Tang warned that the death toll is likely to rise as investigators access more parts of the building.
The inferno, which burned for 24 hours, was eventually brought under control by more than 1,000 firefighters. Even after the flames were contained, thick smoke lingered at the site for two days, causing occasional flare-ups that further complicated recovery efforts.
Police Commissioner Raymond Siu Chan said officers would undertake a comprehensive sweep of the affected structure. “We will endeavour to force entry into all the units of the seven blocks concerned so as to ensure that there are no other possible casualties,” he told reporters.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, attention has also turned to alleged negligence linked to ongoing renovation works. Hong Kong’s anti-corruption watchdog has opened an investigation into possible malpractice surrounding the project. On Thursday, officials confirmed that the agency was examining suspected corruption linked to the building’s refurbishment. At least three people, including two company directors and an engineering consultant, have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the probe.
