The death toll from last week’s catastrophic Hong Kong apartment fire rose to at least 151, as investigators revealed that scaffolding mesh used during renovations failed fire-safety standards, contradicting earlier tests.
Hong Kong Chief Secretary Eric Chan said seven of 20 new samples did not meet regulations, suggesting contractors prioritized cost-cutting over safety.
Recovery teams found additional bodies, including firefighters, while more than 30 people remain missing. Officials warned some remains may never be identified due to severe burns.
🇭🇰 The death toll from the Hong Kong fire has risen to 146 people
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) December 1, 2025
Victims were found both inside apartments and on rooftops, where residents apparently fled in desperation.
Officials estimate that it may take several more weeks to inspect the remaining high-rise buildings, and… pic.twitter.com/xrf8XTMrUO
Public anger has intensified amid reports that fire alarms were switched off and residents had long flagged unsafe renovation materials. Authorities have arrested 14 people for suspected manslaughter, with more arrests possible.
Beijing, wary of unrest, has moved to stifle criticism. Three people were arrested under the national security law after launching a petition for an independent inquiry. The central government warned against protests, drawing comparisons to the 2019 crackdown.
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