Death Toll in Hong Kong Fire Rises to 128, Around 200 Still Missing

Hong Kong has witnessed its deadliest fire in 80 years. The death toll has now risen to 128, while nearly 200 residents of a burnt high-rise residential complex remain missing, according to city security chief Chris Tang.

The fire broke out at 2:51 p.m. local time in a 32-storey residential complex in the Tai Po area in the northern part of the city.

Chris Tang told reporters that the rescue operation has ended, but police fear more bodies may be found as they conduct a detailed investigation inside the building. Of the 128 victims, only 39 have been identified so far.

He added that the fire alarms in the complex did not function properly. Among the deceased, one firefighter was also reported dead.

Tang said the current priority is stabilising the building. Once the overall condition is deemed safe, police and emergency teams will resume recovery operations and collect bodies.

The complex, home to more than 4,600 residents, had been wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and green netting for renovation work.

Police have detained three officials of the construction company on charges of sealing windows and using foam and other unsafe materials.

The incident has plunged Hong Kong residents into deep grief and has raised fresh concerns over the city's safety standards.