HONG KONG — An inquiry into the cause of a devastating fire in Hong Kong that marked the deadliest in decades is nearing its conclusion, as an independent committee began final arguments on Wednesday. This investigation follows a tragic November incident where seven buildings were consumed by flames, resulting in 168 fatalities and significant trauma to the Wang Fuk Court community in Tai Po.
Established by the Hong Kong city government in December, the panel’s mission was to uncover the causes behind the fire with an expected timeline of nine months. Former residents and victims’ families have been awaiting the committee’s findings, with final hearings scheduled to conclude by Friday.
Legal responsibility for the fire is outside the committee’s scope and will be addressed by law enforcement professionals.
Committee Explores Contributing Factors to the Blaze
The committee, which includes High Court Judge David Lok, Executive Council member Chan Kin-por, and Hospital Authority Board member Rex Auyeung, has been examining various factors since hearings commenced in March. According to lead lawyer Victor Dawes, evidence shows a combination of issues such as disabled fire alarms, non-compliant scaffolding netting, and blocked windows with foam boards.
Martin Ho, representing ISS EastPoint Properties, indicated the company’s electrician mistakenly deactivated the fire alarm system while draining water tanks. He suggested this could have been avoided if the fire service contractor had supervised the process.
Ho further mentioned that a contractor identified the issue but failed to follow through, a situation he described as “baffling.” Aaron Chan, representing a contractor’s director, acknowledged the importance of the alarm system but urged the committee to consider limited escape opportunities and other factors.
Residents Express Concerns Over Accountability
Residents of Wang Fuk Court voiced concerns about accountability during Wednesday’s proceedings. Betty Ho expressed skepticism about uncovering the truth but hoped for justice on behalf of the victims. “I don’t think we’ll get what we hoped for in the end,” she remarked.
Similarly, Patrick Liu was doubtful, stating, “Basically, everyone is just shirking responsibility. There’s no need to even think about it.” He plans to await the committee’s report and subsequent court proceedings for clarity.
Panel Investigates Systemic Issues
Beyond the immediate causes of the fire, the committee is also investigating systemic issues like bid-rigging within large-scale building maintenance and renovation projects in Hong Kong. Recommendations are expected on whether existing regulations and penalties suffice.
A Competition Commission representative noted the presence of bid-rigging cartels, sometimes linked to criminal organizations, known as triads. Evidence presented included testimonies, CCTV footage, and text message records.
Legal Proceedings Following the Fire
In June, Hong Kong authorities charged seven individuals and two companies, including Will Power Architects Company and Prestige Construction & Engineering Co., with crimes such as manslaughter and conspiracy to defraud. These charges relate to alleged negligence and fraudulent activities during the Wang Fuk Court renovation.
The allegations include inadequate oversight of materials and procedures, as well as concealing litigation histories and manipulating tender scores.
