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Hong Kong Pulls Scaffold Nets and Widens Probes After Tai Po High‑Rise Fire Kills 159

Authorities are detaining contractors linked to works at the estate, with security police also arresting government critics.

Overview

  • Officials confirmed 159 deaths after searches of all seven gutted towers at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po.
  • City inspectors ordered exterior mesh removal from roughly 200 buildings by Saturday after initial tests found some netting failed fire‑resistance standards.
  • Police have arrested 15 people tied to construction firms on suspicion of manslaughter and six staff from a registered fire‑service installation contractor on suspicion of fraud.
  • Chief Executive John Lee set up a judge‑led independent committee to examine corruption, bid‑rigging, and fire‑safety systems, with findings to be released publicly.
  • National‑security actions included detentions of a university student and a former district councillor who criticized the response, and police disbanded a volunteer donations hub near the site.