CE John Lee says 36 died in Tai Po blaze, calling it a "major disaster"

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Chief Executive John Lee says the five-alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po is gradually coming under control.

Describing the blaze as a “major disaster” with 36 dead and 279 missing, the city leader says the priority is to control the fire and conduct search-and-rescue operations. 

John Lee says authorities will investigate whether the protective materials used on the external walls of Wang Fuk Court met fire-resistant standards. He stresses that the authorities will pursue legal responsibility in accordance with the law once the investigation is complete.

Secretary for Security Chris Tang says the external wall materials burnt and spread rapidly and intensely — compared with compliant materials. He adds that some units were found to have foam boards attached to their window panes, which he describes as unusual. Police and Fire Services Department will conduct a criminal investigation.

The police have also established a dedicated investigation task force, and the cases will be referred to the Coroner’s Court.