Hong Kong prosecutes seven people and two firms over 168-death residential fire

On 26 November 2025 a massive fire engulfed seven of the eight high‑rise blocks at the Wang Fuk Court public housing estate in Hong Kong, killing 168 residents, a firefighter and several other occupants. The blaze spread rapidly, aided by bamboo scaffolding, non‑fire‑retardant netting, foam boards and deactivated fire‑alarm systems.

Hong Kong’s police and the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) have now charged seven individuals and two companies – consultancy firm Will Power Architects Company and main contractor Prestige Construction & Engineering – with manslaughter, money‑laundering, tax evasion, conspiracy to defraud and other offences. The directors of both firms and a registered inspector were among those indicted. Police arrested 35 people in connection with the fire; nine have been formally charged. The defendants appeared in court on 10 June 2026, acknowledged the charges and the case has been adjourned to September. ICAC investigators cited neglect of safety standards and alleged corrupt practices in awarding the renovation contract worth over HK$300 million. Victims’ families have been awaiting answers as thousands of displaced residents remain in temporary housing.