A devastating fire at the Wang Fuk Court complex in Hong Kong has led to investigations into potential corruption and negligence in its renovations. The inferno, which erupted on the afternoon of March 15, 2024, is now marked as the deadliest in the region in decades, claiming at least 128 lives and leaving approximately 150 residents unaccounted for. The tragedy has raised serious questions regarding safety protocols and oversight in construction practices.
As the fire tore through the complex, engulfing seven of its eight towers, local authorities swiftly arrested three men associated with the renovations. These individuals, linked to the Prestige Construction & Engineering Company, were initially detained on suspicion of manslaughter and gross negligence. Following their release on bail, they faced further arrest by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), which highlighted their significant roles in the project. Prior to this, the ICAC had made arrests involving nine others tied to the renovation efforts.
The Wang Fuk Court complex, home to around 4,800 residents, had a history of safety complaints. Documents reviewed by the Associated Press indicate that residents had voiced concerns about the scaffolding materials used in the renovation, particularly the netting that encased the scaffolding. The city’s labor department confirmed it received multiple complaints and conducted 16 inspections since July 2024, issuing written warnings to contractors about fire safety standards. Notably, an inspection occurred just one week before the fire, underscoring the ongoing issues.
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire ignited from a lower-level scaffolding net and rapidly intensified due to highly flammable foam panels used in the renovation. Hong Kong’s Secretary for Security, Chris Tang, stated that the blaze caused glass to shatter, exacerbating the fire’s spread into residential units. The labor department noted that three prosecutions had been initiated against the construction company for safety violations, resulting in fines totaling 30,000 Hong Kong dollars (approximately $3,850).
Residents’ fears were further compounded by malfunctioning fire alarms within the complex, which primarily housed elderly individuals. Andy Yeung, the director of Hong Kong Fire Services, reported that some alarms failed to activate when tested; however, he did not specify how many were non-functional.
Firefighters faced significant challenges in combating the blaze, which took over a day to bring under control. They focused on saving residents who called for help, but the fire spread uncontrollably for hours. Tragically, one firefighter lost his life in the effort, and a total of 79 people sustained injuries, including twelve firefighters.
In the aftermath, recovery efforts continue as authorities search for additional victims. Officials stated they need to identify 44 more bodies among the deceased. Two Indonesian migrant workers were confirmed among the dead, while 11 others from Indonesia, working as domestic helpers in the complex, remain missing.
The community has come together in mourning, with tributes pouring in for the victims. Near the fire site, grieving families have placed flowers and signs expressing their sorrow. One sign poignantly questioned, “More than 128 innocent lives, what did they do wrong?”
In a solemn display of respect, the city has lowered flags to half-staff, and Chief Executive John Lee led a three-minute silence at government headquarters. This tragic incident stands as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant safety practices in construction and the dire consequences of negligence. The fire at Wang Fuk Court is now the deadliest incident of its kind since a 1996 fire in Kowloon that claimed 41 lives.
