The death toll from a tragic fire in Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po district has risen to 159, marking it as the deadliest residential fire globally since 1980. Authorities warned the number could increase as suspected human bones found at the site undergo testing. The fire, worsened by safety lapses in scaffolding netting, spread fast on bamboo scaffolding covered with non-fire-resistant mesh and foam boards during building renovations. Bernadette Linn, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Development, has ordered all scaffolding mesh on buildings undergoing major repairs to be removed by Saturday. This directive affects about 200 buildings across the city. Mourners have gathered near the burnt apartments, leaving flowers and notes to honor victims ranging from age one to 97. Volunteer organizer Sarah Lam said, “I hope people can come here to lay their grief to rest,” and called for truth and justice for the victims. Residents of the unaffected tower briefly returned home to collect belongings. Over 2,900 displaced residents have been given temporary housing. Police have arrested 15 people, including construction bosses, on manslaughter charges, and six others for faulty fire alarms during the fire. City leader John Lee has warned against crimes exploiting the tragedy. Beijing’s security office in Hong Kong condemned external forces trying to create unrest linked to the disaster. They stated, “All conspiracies to disrupt Hong Kong will have no place to hide and will be thoroughly extinguished.” Recently, three people were arrested on sedition charges related to unrest following the fire. At Hong Kong Baptist University, a student noticeboard urging government response to public demands was blocked off by barricades. The tragedy has sparked sorrow, calls for accountability, and tight official security measures.