Hong Kong Orders Independent Judge-Led Probe After Fire Kills 151 People

Post by : Saif Nasser

Hong Kong has launched a major independent investigation after a deadly fire in Tai Po killed at least 151 people, making it one of the worst disasters the city has seen in decades. Chief Executive John Lee said a special committee led by a judge will examine how the fire started, why it spread so quickly, and whether government oversight failed to prevent the tragedy.

The fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, where more than 4,000 people lived in seven high-rise buildings. Investigators say poor-quality plastic mesh and insulation foam used during building renovation work helped the flames spread rapidly. Police have arrested 13 people for suspected manslaughter, and 12 others in a separate corruption case connected to the renovation work. It is not yet clear if any of them are tied to both investigations.

Rescuers have searched most of the burnt towers, finding victims in stairwells and on rooftops—places where people tried desperately to escape but became trapped. Around 30 people are still missing. Two of the towers most badly damaged may take weeks to fully examine. Many apartments are now blackened, filled with ash, and flooded with water used by firefighters.

Residents had warned the government last year about fire risks linked to the renovation works, especially the plastic mesh covering bamboo scaffolding. At the time, authorities told residents their fire risk was “relatively low.” But new tests show that the material used did not meet fire safety standards. Officials say contractors used substandard materials in hidden areas where inspectors could not easily see them. Fire alarms at the complex also did not work properly.

The tragedy has caused anger and grief across the city. Thousands of people have left flowers and messages near the buildings. The victims include nine domestic workers from Indonesia and one from the Philippines. Memorial events are also planned in cities like Tokyo, Taipei, and London.

A large ceremony was held on the seventh day after the fire, a traditional “soul return day” in Chinese culture. Hundreds of people prayed, cried, and placed lotus-shaped paper offerings. Many said they hoped the ceremony would help the community heal and cope with the deep sadness left behind.

At the same time, concerns are rising about how the government is handling public criticism. Human rights groups warn that authorities may be suppressing questions about safety failures. A student who demanded answers was detained briefly, and reports say others are being investigated for “possible sedition.” The city’s national security office has warned citizens not to “exploit” the tragedy.

Chief Executive John Lee said he will not tolerate any behavior that “takes advantage” of the disaster, but he did not explain the cases. International observers say the government should avoid treating grieving citizens as criminals and instead focus on transparency and accountability.

Meanwhile, election day in Hong Kong is approaching. Only candidates approved as “patriots” are allowed to run. Many believe voter turnout may reflect the public’s frustration with the government’s response to the fire.

The city is also working to help survivors rebuild their lives. Nearly 1,500 people who first stayed in emergency shelters have been moved to temporary housing. Others are staying in youth hostels and hotels. The fire also killed more than 60 pets, including cats, dogs, and turtles, though more than 200 animals were rescued.

As Hong Kong waits for answers, the judge-led investigation will play a major role in shaping public trust. For many families, the hope is simple: that truth will be uncovered, that those responsible will be held accountable, and that such a tragedy will never happen again.