On November 27, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s Independent Commission Against Corruption issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the victims of the Hung Fuk Court fire and offering sympathies to the families of the deceased, the injured, and those affected.
As the incident involves significant public interest, the Commission has established a special task force to conduct a comprehensive investigation into possible corruption related to the major maintenance works at Hung Fuk Court in Tai Po.
Additionally, the homepage of the Independent Commission Against Corruption’s official website has been changed to black and white. On the afternoon of November 26, a fire broke out in multiple residential buildings at Hung Fuk Court public housing estate in Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong, resulting in significant casualties. On November 27, the Hong Kong Fire Services Department provided an update on the firefighting and rescue progress, stating that the fire in four buildings at Hung Fuk Court has been largely extinguished, while the blaze in the remaining three buildings is mostly under control.
On November 27, the Hong Kong Fire Services Department released data showing that the Tai Po fire in Hong Kong’s New Territories has resulted in 55 fatalities.
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is a major port and global financial hub on China’s southern coast. It was a British colony from 1842 until its sovereignty was returned to China in 1997 under the “one country, two systems” principle, which grants it a high degree of autonomy. Today, it maintains its own legal system and way of life while being an inalienable part of China.
Independent Commission Against Corruption
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is a renowned law enforcement agency in Hong Kong, established in 1974 to combat endemic corruption in the government and police force. Through its three-pronged approach of investigation, prevention, and community education, it was highly successful in cleaning up systemic corruption and is often cited as a global model for anti-corruption bodies.
Hung Fuk Court
Hung Fuk Court is a public housing estate located in Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong. It was completed in 1999 as part of the Tenants Purchase Scheme, which allows residents to purchase their flats. The estate was built to provide quality, affordable housing and is known for its well-maintained facilities and community environment.
Tai Po
Tai Po is a bustling town located in the New Territories of Hong Kong, historically known as a traditional market town. Its history is deeply rooted in the area’s fishing and farming industries, and it was once a stronghold of the powerful Tang Clan, one of Hong Kong’s oldest lineages. Today, it is a modern urban centre, though it retains cultural landmarks like the Tai Po Market and the Man Mo Temple.
Hong Kong Fire Services Department
The Hong Kong Fire Services Department was established in 1868, initially as a volunteer fire brigade. It has since evolved into a modern, comprehensive emergency service responsible for firefighting, ambulance services, and rescue operations. Today, it is a key pillar of public safety for the city, protecting its dense urban environment.
New Territories
The New Territories is a region of Hong Kong that was leased by China to the British Empire in 1898 for 99 years, a key event that shaped its modern history. Originally rural farmland and traditional villages, it has undergone massive development since the mid-20th century to accommodate Hong Kong’s growing population. Today, it is a dynamic mix of bustling new towns, country parks, and preserved heritage sites like walled villages and temples.
