Hong Kong authorities have charged two companies and seven people over the devastating Wang Fuk Court blaze that killed 168 residents last November.

Police filings include 25 counts covering manslaughter, conspiracy to defraud, perverting the course of public justice and tax evasion. The cases target the project consultancy firm, the main contractor, their directors, and a registered inspector whose work oversaw the renovations.

The flames erupted ten days into a renovation programme that managed to disconnect fire alarms for seven of the eight blocks and board up windows with flammable foam. Witnesses also reported construction workers routinely dropping lit cigarette butts across the site, sparking the inferno.

An independent investigation had labelled human error the critical cause of failure – the safety systems designed to protect lives were rendered ineffective by negligence and fraud. In March, police arrested 35 people on allegations of manslaughter and fraud; the anti-graft watchdog subsequently detained 23 more, including contractors and owners‑corporation members.

The fire also intensified scrutiny over Hong Kong’s governance, with Beijing’s security arm arresting a local columnist for publishing critical commentary. The local government warned the media against spreading false or defamatory content during this delicate period.

The investigation highlights serious violations of fire safety standards and raises questions about the adequacy of regulatory oversight. The authorities have indicated that this is likely only the beginning of a broader inquiry that may shed light on additional failures and shortcomings.