Hong Kong leader emphasizes the importance of discovering the truth following fatal apartment fire, urges building reform.

The Chief Executive of Hong Kong announced plans to form an independent panel to investigate and reform the citys building regulations, aiming to prevent future tragedies following the deadly Tai Po fire.

At a press briefing on Tuesday, John Lee emphasized the urgency of reforms after a devastating fire swept through multiple high-rise residential towers in Tai Po at the end of November, claiming the lives of at least 159 people. Lee stated, "We will confront entrenched interests and ensure accountability for everyone involved. Our mission is to uncover the truth, deliver justice, honor the victims, and support those who survived."

Authorities reported that 13 individuals were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, while approximately twelve others faced charges from the Independent Commission Against Corruption related to alleged malpractice connected to the incident.

Flowers and tributes were placed outside the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex following the fire on Nov. 26. Hong Kong police confirmed that all seven affected buildings had been thoroughly searched, and 140 of the 159 victims had been identified.

The Fire Services Department received the first reports of the blaze at Wang Fuk Court around 2:50 p.m. on Nov. 26. By 6:22 p.m., the fire was escalated to a No. 5 alarm, the highest alert level in Hong Kong. Eyewitness photos revealed bamboo scaffolding engulfed in flames and heavy smoke billowing from multiple floors.

Residents, including 83-year-old Chan Kwong-tak, reported that fire alarms did not sound despite being installed in the buildings. "Anyone asleep at that time would have had no chance," he said. Lee acknowledged "failures at various stages" and stressed the necessity for decisive action to eliminate regulatory gaps and hold accountable those responsible.

"We will tackle these bottlenecks and revamp the entire building renovation system to prevent such disasters in the future," Lee added.

Hong Kongs Secretary for Development, Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, stated that the Buildings Department will reassess safety regulations for scaffolding and protective nets. She pointed out that the fire was likely caused by non-compliance within the construction industry, rather than the bamboo scaffolding itself, though bamboo is less fire-resistant than metal structures.

Author: Aiden Foster