The death toll from Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in decades has reached 159, with police warning the figure may still change as investigations continue.
HONG KONG: The death toll from Hong Kong’s worst fire in decades has risen to 159 after all affected housing blocks were searched.
Police cautioned on Wednesday that the figure may not be final, as officers had found “suspected human bones” requiring forensic testing.
The blaze last week engulfed Wang Fuk Court in the city’s northern Tai Po district, becoming the world’s deadliest residential building fire since 1980.
Mourners continued to stream to a small park near the charred buildings, placing hundreds of bouquets and notes for victims aged from one to 97.
“I hope the truth is uncovered swiftly… so they don’t need to depart this world bearing such undeserved grievances,” said memorial volunteer organiser Sarah Lam.
More than 2,900 displaced residents have been provided with temporary housing, officials confirmed.
Authorities believe the fire was worsened by netting that did not meet fire-resistance standards, with flames rapidly covering buildings wrapped in scaffolding and foam boards.
Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn ordered all Hong Kong buildings undergoing major maintenance to remove their netting by Saturday.
Police have arrested a total of 15 people, including construction company bosses, on suspicion of manslaughter.
A further six people were arrested over the estate’s malfunctioning fire alarms.
City leader John Lee has warned against crimes that “exploit the tragedy”, with officials monitoring for unrest.
Beijing’s national security office in Hong Kong condemned “external hostile forces” for seizing on the disaster to “stir up trouble and incite chaos”.
Local media reported the sedition arrests of three people, including student Miles Kwan and former district councillor Kenneth Cheung.
A student union notice board at Hong Kong Baptist University, nicknamed a “democracy wall”, was blocked off with barricades on Wednesday. – AFP
