Flammable Materials Blamed as Death Toll Increases in High-Rise Fire in Tai Po District 

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On Thursday, a high-rise complex located in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong caught fire, killing approximately 44 people. According to sources, 300 people are still missing; search operations are being conducted by rescue workers to find these individuals.

It is also reported that, though the fire mainly affected 4 buildings, smoke was observed in 3 other buildings. It is the worst fire incident in decades for Hong Kong. Police officials have arrested three people on suspicion that the fire was intentionally set for manslaughter. 

Gross Negligence Alleged: Three Construction Staff Arrested

Hong Kong police have alleged gross negligence by the construction firm responsible for the ongoing renovation work. Authorities arrested three men in connection with the deadly apartment fire on Thursday morning. The arrested individuals include two directors and one engineering consultant from the construction company.

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According to the police force, the accused’s ages range from 52 to 68 years. Senior Superintendent Eileen Chung Lai-yee of the police force stated: “We have reason to believe that the company's responsible parties were grossly negligent, which led to this accident and caused the fire to spread uncontrollably, resulting in major casualties.” The police launched a specialized investigation team to determine the cause of the fire.

Chinese president Xi Jinping also responded to this incident in the following way, as reported by the state broadcaster CCTV: “Xi Jinping expressed condolences for those who died in the major fire at a residential estate in Tai Po District, New Territories, Hong Kong, including the firefighter who died in the line of duty.”

Flammable Scaffolding and Foam Fuel Rapid Spread

Investigators suspect that the rapid spread of the high-rise fire was fueled by highly flammable materials. The residential blocks were largely covered in bamboo scaffolding and plastic sheeting for exterior renovation. However, officials suggested that the scaffolding and construction netting may not have met fire standards.

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Additionally, fire services officers discovered polystyrene or styrofoam boards blocking some windows. Director of Fire Services Andy Yeung explained that these foam materials were extremely flammable. Their presence caused the fire to spread very rapidly within the blocks, while the bamboo scaffolding acted as a continuous external fuel path for the flames. Authorities will now inspect all housing estates undergoing major works.