Hong Kong authorities have arrested eight more people in connection with a deadly apartment fire, expanding an investigation into suspected systemic safety lapses in the city.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) detained eight individuals on Friday, November 28, following a major probe into the blaze at Wang Fuk Court in a central district. Those arrested include two directors from a consulting firm, two project managers responsible for maintenance, three scaffolding contractors, and an intermediary broker.
These arrests follow the earlier detention of three construction company employees, who face charges of gross negligence. Investigators allege these individuals used substandard materials that contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
The fire has claimed 128 lives, with approximately 200 people still reported missing. Numerous injured victims continue to receive hospital treatment across the city.
Survivors have been housed in temporary shelters for a third consecutive night as the community grapples with the aftermath.
The tragedy has deeply unsettled Hong Kong, a city generally recognized for its robust safety standards. Public outcry questions how fires could spread so quickly across multiple high-rise residential buildings.
The Hong Kong government has announced compensation measures for those affected. Families of the deceased will receive approximately USD 25,600.
Households impacted by the disaster are eligible for about USD 6,400 in aid. These payments are expected to be disbursed within the coming week.