Hong Kong Orders Judge-Led Committee To Probe Cause Of Deadly Building Fire That Killed Over 150

Hong Kong is reeling after the devastating Tai Po fire, the city’s deadliest blaze in decades, which claimed over 150 lives and left dozens injured or missing. Chief Executive John Lee has announced a judge-led independent inquiry to investigate the causes, systemic failures, and suspected corruption tied to the renovation project at Wang Fuk Court. Fourteen people have already been arrested for manslaughter, with the ICAC probing allegations of fraudulent and non-compliant materials. Despite the tragedy, Lee confirmed that the Legislative Council election will proceed as scheduled, urging society to “turn grief into strength” and push for long-term reforms.