Hong Kong Blaze Fatalities Surge to 128

As of Friday, the catastrophic fire at a Hong Kong residential building has claimed 128 lives. Efforts to search and rescue are still ongoing, according to officials.

Chris Tang Ping-keung, Secretary for Security in Hong Kong, announced the updated fatality count, cautioning that the discovery of additional victims is possible.

Investigation and Arrests

Authorities have apprehended three individuals linked to the construction firm overseeing the building's renovation. These arrests were made as part of the investigation into the fire, police confirmed on Thursday.

Police have raised concerns that subpar mesh and extensive Styrofoam use in the building's windows and facade, which accelerated the fire, might be to blame.

Interestingly, identical materials were discovered in another adjacent building that fortunately remained undamaged during the fire.

Massive Fire Engulfs Hong Kong High-Rise

The city's leader, John Lee, mentioned on Thursday that 279 individuals are currently unaccounted for in the wake of this deadly blaze.

Community and Leadership Response

John Lee expressed profound sorrow over the tragic outcomes of the fire, which included the death of a firefighter performing his duties. He extended heartfelt condolences to all affected families.

Sympathies have also come from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who issued a statement offering solace to victims’ families. He directed concerned parties to maximize rescue efforts and aid for the injured while ensuring minimal loss of life and property.