Seven people and two firms charged over Hong Kong fire that killed 168 people

Hong Kong officials have charged seven people and two companies with offences including manslaughter and conspiracy over last year's fire, which killed 168 people.

The fire, which broke out on November 26 2025, engulfed seven blocks of flats in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district.

Former residents and relatives of the victims have spent months waiting for answers after the blaze tore through the close-knit Wang Fuk Court housing estate, which was home to thousands of people.

In a statement on Wednesday, local authorities said police and the Independent Commission Against Corruption charged the suspects with 25 counts.

The allegations also include money laundering, attempting to pervert the course of justice, and tax evasion.

Authorities said the seven people held different roles in the major renovation project at Wang Fuk Court.

The two companies charged are the project consultancy firm and the main contractor involved in the works.

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In March, police said they arrested 38 people on suspicion of offences linked to the complex, including manslaughter and fraud, with nine later charged.

In the same month, the Independent Commission Against Corruption said it had also arrested 23 people on suspicion of offences including bribery and conspiracy to defraud.

Victor Dawes, who represents an independent committee investigating the fire, previously said that almost all fire safety systems failed on the day of the blaze due to human error.

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