At least 128 people are now known to have died after a fire ripped through a Hong Kong residential estate this week, authorities say
At a news briefing, they add that 79 people were injured and 16 bodies remain inside the buildings. Dozens of people are still missing
Officials say the blaze that hit the apartment complex on Wednesday started from a lower level and moved up, but the cause has yet to be determined
Fire alarms in all eight blocks were also found to be not working effectively, authorities say
Several residents have previously reported that their alarms did not sound when the fire broke out
Firefighting operations have now ended at the site. Authorities say more than 2,300 firefighters were involved in the operation.
Security Chief Tang Ping-Keung attributes the rapid spread of the fire to styrofoam placed outside the windows of the apartment blocks.
Officials say that multiple methods, including DNA sampling, will be used to identify deceased residents.
They add that information on the deceased will be released once it has been gathered.
In relation to compensation for those affected by the fire, officials say the government will set up “different schemes” to provide financial assistance for families who have lost their homes.
We’re also told that a separate press conference will be held later to explain about the economic assistance available to affected residents.
Officials are asked about the ongoing investigation into corruption.
