HONG KONG – The death toll following a recent high-rise fire in Hong Kong continues to climb, with authorities reporting at least 13 fatalities and numerous injuries as of Saturday, 2025/12/07. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the blaze and to assess potential safety violations.
The escalating number of deaths underscores growing concerns about fire safety standards in the densely populated city and has prompted a wave of arrests related to potential corruption within the construction industry. Twelve men and one woman are currently in custody, according to police statements issued on 2025/12/06.The incident has triggered a extensive review of construction projects and safety protocols across Hong Kong.
On Friday,2025/12/06,Hong Kong’s anti-corruption authority announced the arrest of eight individuals suspected of corruption linked to construction projects. Those detained include consultants, scaffolding subcontractors, and an intermediary involved in the project. An additional three employees of the construction company responsible for the building where the fire occurred were arrested on Saturday, 2025/12/07.
authorities have halted work on 28 construction projects undertaken by the same company, which was also responsible for the renovation of Wang Fuk Court. A thorough inspection of all safety regulations at Wang Fuk Court is now being conducted.
The investigation is ongoing, with contributions from multiple authorities.Reporting from ARD Studio Beijing, Benjamin Eyssel is providing updates.