Hong Kong Charges Two Companies and Seven Individuals Over Deadly Apartment Fire

HONG KONG — Hong Kong authorities have charged seven people and two companies with manslaughter and other offences in connection with a devastating apartment complex fire that claimed 168 lives last year, marking a major development in the investigation into the city’s deadliest blaze in decades.

Police and the Independent Commission Against Corruption announced the charges on Wednesday following months of investigations into the November 2025 disaster at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in Tai Po.

The fire swept through seven residential towers, killing 168 people and injuring dozens more. Investigators have alleged that serious safety failures linked to renovation works at the complex contributed to the rapid spread of the flames.

Authorities said the accused individuals held various roles in the large-scale renovation project, while the two companies charged were the project’s main contractor and consulting firm. In addition to manslaughter charges, some suspects face allegations including conspiracy, money laundering, tax evasion and attempting to obstruct justice.

Investigators previously reported that non-compliant construction materials, including scaffold netting and insulation products that failed to meet fire-safety standards, may have accelerated the spread of the blaze. Officials have also cited failures in critical fire-safety systems at the housing estate.

The tragedy shocked Hong Kong and sparked widespread public concern over building safety regulations and oversight of construction projects. Families of victims have spent months seeking answers over the circumstances that led to the disaster.

The accused appeared in court on Wednesday as legal proceedings formally began. Authorities say investigations remain ongoing and additional actions could follow as evidence continues to be reviewed.

The Wang Fuk Court fire is regarded as Hong Kong’s deadliest fire since 1948 and remains one of the worst residential disasters in the city’s history.

Source BBC NEWS