Rising Death Toll and Missing Residents
Hong Kong has entered a period of three days of mourning following a catastrophic apartment fire in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court, described as the city’s worst blaze in nearly 80 years. Authorities confirmed at least 128 fatalities, with around 200 residents still unaccounted for. Officials warned the toll could rise further as search and identification efforts continue.
Disaster Victim Identification Unit Mobilized
On Friday afternoon, officers from the Disaster Victim Identification Unit (DVIU), dressed in protective white suits, arrived at Wang Fuk Court to begin the painstaking process of identifying victims. Firefighters led them into Wang Cheong House, believed to be the origin of the blaze and where casualties were concentrated.
Security Chief’s Warning
At a press briefing, Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung confirmed that 128 people had been found dead at the scene, with four more declared dead in hospital. He cautioned that additional bodies may still be discovered as investigations progress, underscoring the scale of the tragedy.
Arrests and Investigation
Authorities have arrested 11 individuals in connection with the fire, though details of the charges have not yet been disclosed. The arrests mark the beginning of what is expected to be a wide-ranging investigation into the causes of the blaze and potential lapses in safety compliance.
Outlook
The disaster has shocked Hong Kong, prompting widespread grief and renewed scrutiny of fire safety standards in high-density housing estates. As mourning begins, the focus remains on recovering the missing, supporting survivors, and ensuring accountability for the city’s deadliest fire in decades.
