Death toll climbs to 128 in Hong Kong blaze as authorities cite faulty alarm systems

What happened?

At 14:51 local time on Wednesday (06:51 GMT), a massive fire ignited at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, which houses approximately 4,600 residents.

The blaze tore through the apartment blocks for more than 24 hours before firefighters successfully extinguished it at around 10:18 local time (02:18 GMT) this morning.

What we know so far

The death toll has risen to at least 128, with many more residents still unaccounted for.

Authorities confirmed that fire alarm systems in all eight residential towers were not functioning properly, following numerous resident reports that alarms failed to sound during the emergency. Investigators are now examining how this malfunction may have allowed the fire to spread with such intensity.

Police have arrested three employees of a construction contractor on suspicion of manslaughter, while a separate corruption inquiry has been launched.

What happens next?

Officials say the investigation will continue over the coming weeks. Our correspondent on the ground has seen investigators arriving in full protective gear to examine structural damage and gather evidence.

Government representatives also announced that financial aid programmes will be established to support displaced residents and families who have lost their homes.

That concludes our live coverage for now. Additional updates and analysis are available in our detailed news report.