Hong Kong authorities have filed 25 serious charges against seven individuals and two private companies, including intentional homicide, conspiracy to defraud, and tax evasion, in connection with the historic fire that destroyed seven residential buildings in the "Wang Fuk Court" apartment complex late last year, resulting in 168 deaths.
The Hong Kong Police Force, together with the Independent Commission Against Corruption, issued a joint statement announcing charges against seven suspects and two private companies, totaling 25 counts, after concluding the investigation into the deadliest fire in Hong Kong in over 70 years.
Those charged include the project consulting firm and the main contractor, as well as individuals involved in various roles during the major renovation of the buildings, including directors of both companies and a registered building inspector employed by the consulting firm. Although the statement did not officially release names, earlier reports identified the structural engineering consulting company as "Will Power Architects" and the main contractor registered for the renovation as "Prestige Construction and Engineering Company."
The suspects face multiple serious charges, including intentional homicide without premeditation, conspiracy to defraud, attempting to obstruct justice, money laundering, and tax evasion.
The tragedy occurred on 26 Nov 2025, when a fierce and rapidly spreading fire engulfed seven residential buildings within the "Wang Fuk Court" complex in Tai Po, a densely populated suburban district. The fire claimed 168 lives and destroyed what was once a peaceful community. For months, former residents and relatives of the victims have awaited answers and justice from the government.
Victor Dawes, the lawyer representing the Independent Commission investigating the fire, previously revealed the grim finding that "almost all fire safety and prevention systems in the buildings completely failed" on the day of the incident. The investigation found that serious human errors and negligence during the renovation process caused the failure.
This case is not only a severe disaster but has also exposed a major corruption network. Within the first week after the fire, authorities arrested two directors of Will Power Architects.
In March, police expanded arrests, detaining 38 more suspects on charges of homicide and fraud, including nine previously charged. Concurrently, the anti-corruption agency arrested 23 others, including consultants, contractors, and members of the apartment owners' association, on bribery and conspiracy to defraud charges. The latest group of seven individuals and two companies are scheduled to appear in court to hear the charges this afternoon.