Death toll from massive fire in Hong Kong rises to 146

Police continue to search destroyed apartment towers in Hong Kong after a massive fire that claimed at least 146 victims. The fire engulfed seven towers in the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex, which was under renovation.

The fire started last Wednesday and quickly spread along the outer walls of the apartments. Police searched four of the seven towers, finding the bodies of residents trapped in the stairwells and on the roofs as they fled.

Approximately 40 people are still missing and the investigation phase into the cause of the fire is ongoing. They have already arrested 11 people due to malfunctioning alarms and suspected use of hazardous building materials, including in connection with possible corruption.

More than 1,100 residents have been moved to temporary accommodation, with another 680 accommodated in youth hostels and hotels.

(reuters, sie)