An independent committee investigating the cause of Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in recent decades concluded its hearings on Friday, focusing on how improper practices and a lack of regulatory oversight transformed a small fire into a massive tragedy. The November blaze tore through seven buildings at the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in the suburban Tai Po district, resulting in 168 deaths and displacing thousands of residents, many of whom remain in temporary housing.
Victor Dawes, the lead lawyer for the committee, argued that the use of non-fire-retardant scaffolding netting was a primary factor in the fire's rapid spread throughout the complex, which was undergoing a major renovation. Furthermore, he noted that wooden planks used to board up staircase windows created thick plumes of smoke that blocked residents' primary escape routes.
The committee heard allegations that Will Power Architects Company, the project's consultancy, and Prestige Construction & Engineering Co., the main contractor, actively cut corners regarding materials and safety standards. Dawes accused these entities of deceiving both homeowners and regulators, citing instances of faked inspection compliance and professionals who treated mandatory safety documentation as a mere “rubber stamp.” He further criticized the government for its reliance on an honor system for project oversight, stating that when confronted with dishonest actors, the entire regulatory framework collapsed.
Representing the government, lawyer Jenkin Suen acknowledged on Thursday that there were systemic vulnerabilities, though he argued it would be unfair to label government departments as the fire's instigators. He maintained that specific contractors and professionals had abused public protection mechanisms and betrayed the trust placed in them. Jeffrey Tam, representing nine residents of the complex, remarked that while some residents provided testimony despite their distress, others involved in the project appeared to be shirking responsibility, which he noted only fueled the anger of those affected.
The committee, led by High Court judge David Lok, is tasked with reviewing the cause of the fire and identifying potential systemic failures, as well as evaluating if current regulations and penalties are sufficient. While the committee is expected to issue recommendations, its mandate does not include determining legal liabilities. Separate from this inquiry, Hong Kong authorities charged seven individuals and two companies—including Will Power Architects Company and Prestige Construction & Engineering Co.—last June with various offenses, including conspiracy to defraud and manslaughter.
