The tragic death toll from the massive residential block blaze in Hong Kong has now reached 159, as authorities have ordered the taking down of all scaffolding mesh across the city by this Saturday.
A Deadly Blaze Which Has Become a Global Tragedy
The blaze that swept through Wang Fuk Court in the north Tai Po district last week now is considered the world’s deadliest apartment block blaze recorded since 1980.
Law enforcement have indicated that the number of dead may still be revised, as officers discovered "suspected human bones" that need additional analysis.
“I hope people can come here to lay their grief to rest,” said one of the organisers, adding that the victims suffered “a great deal of unfairness.”
Netting Blamed for Quick Escalation of Fire
Officials have previously stated the disaster at the estate, which was undergoing major renovations, was likely made worse by the installation of mesh that did not meet safety regulations.
The fire reportedly quickly covered the surfaces of the buildings, which were encased in bamboo scaffolding, protective netting, and insulation panels.
In response, the secretary for development on Wednesday instructed all Hong Kong buildings receiving substantial upkeep to remove their netting by Saturday. This directive is expected to affect approximately 200 structures across the city.
A City in Mourning
Mourners have continued to stream to a small park near the charred buildings, placing hundreds of bouquets and messages of condolence for the victims. The youngest victim was just one year old, and the oldest was 97.
Sections of the park were adorned with rows of colourful origami cranes, and helpers distributed paper and pens to visitors.
One 26-year-old visitor, characterised the location as a “bridge,” allowing for “communication and the sharing of sorrow through this silent bond” with those who perished.
Aftermath and Arrests
Occupants of the only building not burned were allowed to go back shortly on Wednesday to collect personal items.
Authorities stated that more than 2,900 residents have been given temporary housing.
Law enforcement have earlier arrested a group of fifteen individuals, including construction company bosses, on charges related to manslaughter.
A additional six people have been arrested on a separate allegation, concerning the estate’s fire alarms which malfunctioned at the time of the blaze.
Appeals for Order and Caution
While the catastrophe has led to widespread demands for responsibility and change, leaders are also watching out for any unrest linked to the incident.
The city leader has cautions about actions that “take advantage of the disaster.”
In a different announcement, the national security office condemned what it called “outside agitators” that have “seized upon the disaster to stir up trouble and provoke disorder.”
The office stated that “all acts and words aimed at undermining the city’s stability will be documented and investigated indefinitely,” and that “any plots to disrupt Hong Kong will have no place to hide.”
Local media have covered the arrests of a number of people over the weekend, including a 24-year-old student and a former district councillor, for alleged sedition. Both men were subsequently spotted departing from custody.
In a connected event, a campus message board run by a student union was sealed off on Wednesday. A message placed on the board, which could still be seen behind barriers, said: “We are Hongkongers. Urge the government to address public demands so justice can be done.”