At least 128 people have died in a devastating fire that engulfed multiple high-rise buildings in Hong Kong.
A further 79 people have been injured in the city's deadliest blaze in more than 70 years, which occurred in the northerly suburb of Tai Po, while dozens remain missing.
The tower blocks had been undergoing renovations when the fire began. The cause of the blaze remains unclear but officials said that Styrofoam placed on the outside of the windows facilitated its rapid spread.
Three people overseeing the renovations are under arrest for manslaughter, and authorities have launched a corruption inquiry.
Bringing the fire under control involved more than 2,311 firefighters. Firefighting efforts were deemed complete by 10:18 local time on Friday. The fire reached a peak temperature of 500C (932F), which caused it to reignite in some areas after being doused.
Initial reports indicate that fire alarms in all eight blocks were not working effectively, and there are allegations that some alarms were turned off by construction workers. Residents had previously voiced grievances regarding high renovation fees and the materials used in compliance with fire-safety regulations.
As anger mounts among the community, police are focusing their investigation on potential negligence by those in charge of the renovations, highlighting that accountability will be crucial in the aftermath of this tragic incident.
