Hong Kong has announced a judge-led independent commission of inquiry to examine the cause of the devastating fire that swept through the Wang Fuk Court housing complex last week, claiming at least 151 lives and displacing thousands of residents. The incident marks one of the city’s deadliest fires in decades and has prompted a broad review of building safety and renovation oversight.
Chief Executive John Lee said the inquiry will focus on understanding how the blaze spread so quickly across multiple towers, assessing the materials used during ongoing renovation works, and identifying measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. “We must uncover the truth, ensure that justice is served, let the deceased rest in peace, and provide comfort to the living,” he said, emphasizing that safety reforms will be prioritized.
Rapid Fire Spread Under Investigation
Initial findings shared by officials indicate that the fire began in scaffolding surrounding the complex, which was undergoing maintenance. Authorities said high winds, combined with renovation materials that did not meet fire-retardant standards, contributed to the rapid expansion of the blaze across seven of the eight residential towers.
Investigators noted that:
- Foam insulation used to block windows was highly flammable
- Green scaffolding netting, which is required to be flame-retardant, did not meet standards
- Some materials had been mixed or placed in hard-to-access areas, making inspections difficult
These factors are expected to be central to the work of the independent commission.
Ongoing Investigations and Arrests
Police and anti-corruption authorities have detained 14 individuals as part of ongoing inquiries into the incident. According to official statements, those detained include directors and an engineering consultant associated with a construction company involved in the renovation project. Police report that 13 of the individuals have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.
Investigators continue to examine the renovation process, material procurement, inspection procedures, and compliance with safety standards across the affected buildings.
Search Operations Continue in Heavily Damaged Towers
Authorities say search teams have completed work on five of the seven most affected towers. The remaining two buildings are severely damaged, and the search may take several weeks due to safety hazards. Rescue personnel have encountered rooms with collapsed walls, charred interiors, and standing water from firefighting operations.
More than 30 people remain unaccounted for. The search effort involves fire services, structural engineers, and recovery teams working under strict safety protocols.
Community Support and Relief Efforts
The fire displaced over 4,600 residents, many of whom were forced to flee with little notice. Authorities have moved nearly 1,500 survivors from temporary evacuation centers into transitional housing, while others have been placed in youth hostels and hotels.
To support affected families:
- Emergency financial assistance of HK$10,000 per household has been offered
- Fast-track services are being provided for lost identity cards, passports, and personal documents
- Charitable organizations and community groups have launched local and international vigils
- Donations have reached more than HK$900 million, according to relief officials
The fire also resulted in the loss of more than 60 pets, while over 200 animals were rescued by emergency responders and volunteers.
Residents Had Reported Concerns Before the Fire
Hong Kong’s Labour Department confirmed that residents raised concerns in 2024 about the materials used for the renovation works, including potential flammability of the scaffolding mesh. Officials said assessments at the time identified “relatively low fire risks,” but subsequent tests following the fire found that some mesh samples did not meet required standards.
This aspect is expected to form a key part of the independent inquiry’s review.
A Focus on Prevention and Future Safety
The judge-led commission will examine building regulations, renovation oversight, inspection procedures, and emergency response protocols. The goal, officials say, is to strengthen safety standards, improve transparency, and ensure that residents living in high-rise buildings are better protected.
Authorities emphasized that the inquiry’s findings will guide reforms and long-term safety improvements for residential developments across Hong Kong.
Conclusion
As Hong Kong continues search operations and supports displaced families, the independent inquiry aims to bring clarity to how the tragedy unfolded and what corrective measures are required. While investigations are ongoing, the city’s leadership has pledged to prioritize safety, accountability, and support for those affected.