The death toll from the devastating fire at Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court residential complex has risen to 128, with authorities warning that the number may climb further.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government confirmed the figures on Friday as rescue operations continued nonstop.
Fire Services Department (FSD) personnel mobilised 304 fire engines and rescue vehicles, deploying drones to track heat levels and prevent flare-ups.
Firefighters extinguished flames in four buildings and brought the blaze under control in the remaining three, according to Xinhua News Agency.
Wang Fuk Court comprises eight residential buildings, all wrapped in green mesh and scaffolding for an ongoing renovation project.
Police arrested three renovation contractors on suspicion of manslaughter.
Investigators found that flammable materials surrounding the buildings may have accelerated the fire’s spread.
Officials described the incident as one of Hong Kong’s worst fires in decades.
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Chief Executive John Lee addressed the media in the early hours of Thursday. He said firefighters had gradually brought the blaze under control after hours of relentless work.
John Lee confirmed that around 279 people remain missing. Hospitals are treating 29 survivors, including seven in critical condition.
Lee expressed deep sorrow and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to full-scale rescue and relief support.
From the exterior, firefighters reported no visible flames in three buildings and only sporadic fire spots in four others.
Chief Executive John Lee instructed all departments to deploy maximum resources and coordinate rescue efforts. He also directed them to assist families, offer emotional support, treat the injured, and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the disaster.
The FSD received the first emergency call at 2:51 PM on Wednesday, and officials raised the alert to a No 5 alarm at 6:22 PM as the fire escalated rapidly.
Rescue teams continued working through the night to contain the blaze and save residents.
At temporary shelters, personnel from the Home Affairs Department, Civil Aid Service, Care Teams and the Police Force coordinated support services for displaced residents.
Tai Po district councillor and Care Team member Lam Yick Kuen said many individuals and organisations donated food, supplies, and essentials.
He noted that these contributions reflected strong community solidarity during the crisis.
Authorities continue to search for survivors and stabilise affected buildings as families await updates on their missing loved ones.
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