Extensive Search Uncovers More Victims in Hong Kong High-Rise Fire
In Hong Kong, a search operation conducted by firefighters has revealed numerous additional bodies in a high-rise complex consumed by flames. This tragic incident, which ranks among the city’s most devastating fires, has seen the death toll rise to 128, with several individuals still missing. Following the disaster, authorities have detained eight more people linked to the ongoing renovations of the affected buildings.
Significant issues with the fire safety systems were also discovered. Andy Yeung, Director of Hong Kong Fire Services, noted that several fire alarms within the complex, primarily occupied by older residents, failed to activate during testing. However, specific details regarding the number of non-functional alarms were not disclosed.
The fire rapidly spread across seven buildings, ignited by foam panels and bamboo scaffolding draped in netting, according to reports. Arrests have been made, including subcontractors and project managers, as authorities investigate potential negligence in the renovation process.
Efforts to combat the blaze were extensive, with emergency crews responding to calls from trapped residents in the burning buildings, as mentioned by Derek Armstrong Chan, Deputy Director of Hong Kong Fire Services. The fire, which took nearly 40 hours to fully extinguish, left a trail of destruction and smoldering debris.
Ongoing Challenges and Investigations
Secretary for Security Chris Tang reported that approximately 200 individuals remain unaccounted for, with 89 bodies yet to be identified. The operation engaged over 2,300 firefighters and medical staff, resulting in 79 injuries, including the tragic loss of one firefighter.
Residents like Katy Lo, who was not present when the fire began, returned to find her home engulfed in flames. “That’s my home.… I still can’t really believe what happened,” she expressed while seeking government aid.
The fire has claimed the lives of several migrant workers, with the Indonesian foreign ministry confirming the deaths of two Indonesian nationals and the disappearance of 11 others.
In light of the tragedy, Hong Kong’s leadership has announced a period of mourning, with flags at half-mast and a city-wide moment of silence under the direction of city leader John Lee.
Renovation and Safety Concerns
The complex, comprising eight 31-story buildings in the Tai Po district, was undergoing significant renovation. Built in the 1980s, it housed nearly 2,000 apartments and approximately 4,800 residents. Following the incident, investigations have revealed the installation of flammable foam panels on the windows, leading to questions about construction standards and safety compliance.
Law enforcement has already seized documents from the Prestige Construction & Engineering Company, suspected of negligence in the use of unsafe materials. Subsequent inspections of other housing projects are planned to ensure adherence to fire safety standards.
The recent fire is the most deadly in Hong Kong since a 1996 blaze that claimed 41 lives. As authorities continue their inquiries, they aim to prevent a recurrence of such a catastrophic event.
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