Hong Kong arrests 13 as probe into deadly estate fire widens

Hong Kong police have arrested 13 people on suspicion of manslaughter as investigators dig deeper into the city’s worst fire in more than 70 years, a blaze that has claimed at least 151 lives and left families searching for answers.

The arrests follow early findings that point to substandard renovation materials and faulty safety systems at the Wang Fuk Court estate, a cluster of seven towers gutted by flames on Wednesday. Police teams continue to work through the charred buildings, finding bodies in stairwells, on rooftops and inside flats where residents were trapped as they tried to escape.

“Some of the bodies have turned into ash, therefore we might not be able to locate all missing individuals,” police official Tsang Shuk yin told reporters, struggling to hold back tears.

More than 40 people remain unaccounted for.

Officials overseeing the investigation said tests showed that a green mesh wrapped around the bamboo scaffolding failed to meet fire retardant requirements. They said contractors used this material in hidden and hard to inspect areas.

Eric Chan, Chief Secretary described it as “deliberate concealment,” adding that foam insulation used during the renovation also fuelled the fire. Earlier checks had already revealed that fire alarms in the complex were not functioning properly.

The tragedy has shaken the city. Thousands have queued for hours to leave flowers and incense along a canal near the estate. Reuter s report that at least nine of the victims were domestic workers from Indonesia and one from the Philippines, prompting vigils across Asia and Europe. Memorial events are scheduled this week in Tokyo, London and Taipei.

Chris Tang, the city’s security chief declined to discuss the arrests or investigative operations, but accused unnamed groups of trying to use the tragedy to undermine Hong Kong.

“I have noticed that some people with malicious intent, aiming to harm Hong Kong and national security, have taken advantage of this painful moment for society,” he said. “Therefore, we must take appropriate action, including enforcement measures.”

Authorities warn that the search for remains could take weeks. Images released by police show officers in protective suits moving carefully through rooms with walls scorched black and furniture reduced to powdery debris. Pools of water from days of firefighting still cover parts of the floor.

The estate housed more than 4000 people. Many fled with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. More than 1100 survivors have been moved from evacuation centres to temporary homes, while another 680 are staying in hostels and hotels.

The government is offering emergency support, including HK 10000 for each household and fast tracked replacement of identity documents.

The fire is Hong Kong’s deadliest since 1948, when 176 people were killed in a warehouse blaze. The scale of loss has stunned the city just days before legislative elections.