Hong Kong leader says 'we must uncover the truth' after deadly apartment fire, calls for building reform
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Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced the creation of an independent committee to investigate and reform the city's building-work system following a deadly fire in the Tai Po district that killed at least 159 people. Authorities have arrested 13 individuals on suspicion of manslaughter and around a dozen others for alleged corrupt practices connected to the tragedy. The fire broke out on November 26 at Wang Fuk Court and escalated to Hong Kong’s highest alarm level, with investigations completed in all seven affected buildings and identification of 140 victims. Officials noted failures in safety protocols and plan to overhaul building renovation regulations and review scaffolding safety rules to prevent similar incidents.
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Hong Kong’s chief executive said he will establish an independent committee to examine and reform the city’s building-work system as part of efforts to prevent future disasters following the deadly Tai Po fire. John Lee told reporters at a news conference Tuesday that reforms are urgently needed after at least 159 people were killed when a fire engulfed several high-rise residential towers in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district in late November. "We will overcome the obstacles of vested interests and pursue accountability, regardless of who he or she is. We must uncover the truth, ensure that justice is served, let the deceased rest in peace, and provide comfort to the living," said Lee.The Hong Kong leader shared that 13 people were arrested by police for suspected manslaughter and roughly a dozen others were arrested by the Independent Commission Against Corruption for "corrupt practices which relate to this tragedy."TIMELINE OF THE PALISADES FIRE MANHUNT: FROM ALLEGED MIDNIGHT SPARK TO FLORIDA ARRESTThe Hong Kong Police Department said Wednesday they have completed searches of all seven fire-damaged buildings and identified 140 of the 159 victims.The Hong Kong Fire Services Department s...
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Source: Fox News
Posted on 12-03-2025 17:23