Hong Kong tower fire death toll rises to 128, as 200 remain missing

The death toll from Hong Kong’s worst fire in nearly 80 years has risen to 128, and about 200 people remain missing from the high-rise residential complex that was engulfed by the blaze, the city’s security chief says.

The fire hit the Wang Fuk Court development, with eight 32-storey towers, in the northern district of Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon.

Hong Kong Security Chief Chris Tang, speaking at a press conference, says fire alarms in the complex had not been working properly.

Rescue efforts have now been concluded, and at least 79 people, including 12 firefighters, were injured, he says.

The estate, housing more than 4,600 people, had been wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and green mesh for renovation work.

Police say they have arrested three construction company officials on suspicion of manslaughter for using unsafe materials, including flammable foam boards blocking windows.