Death toll from Hong Kong fire rises daily

The police have completed the investigation of four out of seven high-rise buildings affected by the deadliest fire in the city in the past 75 years, with the bodies of the victims found on staircases and rooftops, where they had become trapped while trying to escape the flames.

Thousands of people have gathered to pay their respects to the victims, and vigils are also scheduled to be held this week in Tokyo and London. Around 40 people are still listed as missing, authorities said.

Cause of the fire still unknown

The cause of the fire, which broke out last Wednesday and spread rapidly, is still under investigation. However, as public dissatisfaction grows, Beijing has warned that it will crack down on any “anti-China” protests.

At least one person involved in a petition calling, among other demands, for an independent investigation has been detained, according to sources familiar with the case.

The remaining buildings to be searched for remains are described by police as "the most difficult," with officials adding that the final phase of the search could take weeks.

More than 1,100 people have been relocated from evacuation centers to temporary accommodations, and an additional 680 have been housed in youth hostels and hotels, authorities said. Since many residents left their belongings behind when fleeing, the authorities have offered emergency assistance of $1,284 per household and provided special support for issuing new identity cards, passports, and marriage certificates.

As part of the investigation, 11 people have been arrested.

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