The city of Hong Kong Residential Blaze Fatalities Rises to 159, Prompting Citywide Order to Remove Protective Netting

The tragic death toll from the major residential block blaze in Hong Kong has now reached 159, while city officials have ordered the taking down of all scaffolding mesh across the city by this Saturday.

A Fatal Inferno That Became a Worldwide Disaster

The blaze that swept through Wang Fuk Court in the northern Tai Po district last week now stands as the most fatal apartment block blaze recorded since 1980.

Police officials have stated that the fatality count could still change, as investigators recovered "what are believed to be human remains" that require further forensic testing.

“I hope people can come here to find a place for their sorrow,” said one of the organisers, noting that the victims endured “many injustices.”

Scaffolding Material Cited for Quick Escalation of Flames

Officials have previously stated the tragedy at the housing complex, which was in the midst of significant repairs, was probably exacerbated by the installation of mesh that failed to comply with fire-resistance standards.

The flames are said to have rapidly spread across the exteriors of the apartment blocks, which were encased in scaffolding poles, safety mesh, and insulation panels.

In reaction, the development chief on Wednesday instructed all Hong Kong buildings undergoing major maintenance to remove their netting by Saturday. This directive is likely to impact approximately 200 structures across the city.

A City in Mourning

Mourners have continued to stream to a public garden near the fire-damaged buildings, placing hundreds of bouquets and notes of remembrance for the victims. The youngest victim was just one year old, and the oldest was 97.

Sections of the park were decorated with rows of paper cranes, and helpers distributed paper and pens to visitors.

One young man, characterised the location as a “bridge,” allowing for “communication and the sharing of sorrow through this silent bond” with those who perished.

Aftermath and Arrests

Occupants of the only building not burned were permitted to go back shortly on Wednesday to collect personal items.

Officials stated that more than 2,900 residents have been provided with short-term accommodation.

Law enforcement have previously detained a total of 15 people, including construction company bosses, on charges related to manslaughter.

A further six have been arrested on a different charge, concerning the estate’s fire alarms which failed to work at the time of the blaze.

Appeals for Order and Caution

While the disaster has led to widespread calls for accountability and reform, leaders are also monitoring for any unrest connected with the incident.

The chief executive has warned against crimes that “exploit the tragedy.”

In a different announcement, the security authority condemned what it called “external hostile forces” that have “taken advantage of the disaster to stir up trouble and provoke disorder.”

The authority wrote that “all acts and words aimed at undermining the city’s stability will be recorded and pursued for life,” and that “all conspiracies to disrupt Hong Kong will have no place to hide.”

Local media have covered the detentions of a number of people over the weekend, including a university student and a former district councillor, for alleged sedition. Both men were subsequently spotted departing from custody.

In a connected event, a university noticeboard run by a student union was blocked off on Wednesday. A message placed on the board, which remained visible behind barricades, said: “We are Hongkongers. Urge the government to respond to public demands so fairness may prevail.”