Hong Kong Mourns as Blaze Exposes Construction Flaws: Fire Scandal Unfolds at Wang Fuk Court

Hong Kong faces grief and controversy after a devastating fire at Wang Fuk Court kills at least 128. Officials arrest 11 amid allegations of corruption and unsafe renovation materials. As rescue efforts proceed, public demands grow for an independent investigation into the blaze, the deadliest since 1948.

Hong Kong is in mourning following a tragic fire at the Wang Fuk Court high-rise, which has claimed the lives of 128 people, with concerns that the death toll could rise. Rescue operations concluded Friday, and officials have arrested 11 in relation to the city's deadliest blaze in 80 years.

Authorities are probing alleged corruption and unsafe materials used during renovations. The Wang Fuk Court tragedy forces mainland China to enhance building safety inspections. The fire began Wednesday and quickly spread, engulfing nearly all eight 32-storey blocks wrapped in controversial renovation materials.

As the community grapples with grief, demands intensify for an independent investigation. Volunteers and activists in Hong Kong are petitioning for government accountability and a comprehensive review of construction oversight, citing parallels to other high-profile fires like the Grenfell Tower in London.

(With inputs from agencies.)