Hong Kong police arrest construction firm bosses over fire; death toll hits 94, with scores missing

Friday, November 28, 2025 -A catastrophic fire tore through the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong — now confirmed as the city’s worst blaze in decades. Fire authorities have declared the death toll at 94, and said they expect to wrap up search and rescue operations soon.

Investigators believe the fire spread catastrophically due to unsafe renovation practices. The complex was wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and green mesh for renovations, and reports suggest the use of flammable foam and other hazardous materials helped the fire engulf the towers.

In response, law enforcement arrested senior personnel from the renovation firm — including two directors and an engineering consultant from Prestige Construction and Engineering Company — on suspicion of manslaughter and gross negligence. Officials have seized company documents and equipment as part of the investigation.