The blaze, which has been burning for more than 18 hours, remains uncontrolled in parts of Wang Fuk Court, according to local media reports. The fire spread rapidly through the bamboo scaffolding surrounding seven residential blocks.

Police have arrested three construction company executives on suspicion of manslaughter linked to the use of flammable materials, including mesh and plastic sheets. Senior Superintendent Eileen Chung Lai-yee of the New Territories North regional headquarters told the South China Morning Post that investigators believe “gross negligence” allowed the fire to spread quickly, resulting in heavy casualties.

More than 40 injured residents remain in critical condition in hospitals across the city.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as the fire tore through the high-rise complex. An 82-year-old woman surnamed Wu told BBC Chinese she had been playing mahjong with friends when the blaze broke out. “I stayed here to watch what was going on. I told my son I would only be at peace when the fire calmed down,” she said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences over the loss of life and called for “all-out efforts” to extinguish the blaze and reduce further casualties, state-run Xinhua reported.

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te also offered condolences, urging prayers for those affected and expressing hope that the missing would be located safely. The U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong and Macau said on X that it was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.

Emergency crews continue to battle the blaze as rescue operations expand across the affected blocks.