Arrests in Hong Kong

Following the fire disaster in Hong Kong, authorities have arrested at least 25 people. They are also targeting individuals who criticize the handling of the tragedy.

Corruption and substandard building materials used in the renovation work are the focus of investigators in Hong Kong as they search for those responsible for the fire disaster. Some of the protective netting attached to the scaffolding did not meet fire safety standards. This was the finding of an examination of several samples collected from the seven high-rise buildings that caught fire.

Several arrests

At least 25 people have been arrested in connection with the fire by police and Hong Kong's anti-corruption agency, Chief Executive John Lee announced.

According to local media, three men were also arrested for alleged rioting, including a 24-year-old student who had distributed leaflets for a petition demanding an independent investigation into the disaster. The petition, which has since been blocked by the authorities, had garnered more than 10,000 signatures.

The Hong Kong government has announced an independent investigation. The panel will also make proposals to prevent a similar tragedy in the future, Chief Executive Lee said at a press conference. A judge will reportedly head the commission.

China sends warning to Hong Kong

China's National Security Bureau warned Hong Kongers against using the disaster for anti-government demonstrations. Anti-Chinese agitators who destabilize Hong Kong will be prosecuted and severely punished under state security laws, Chinese state media said. Furthermore, measures will be taken against"inaccurate online comments" about the fire, according to Hong Kong's security chief, Chris Tang.

In recent years, the influence of China's communist central government in Hong Kong has increased significantly. Fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and freedom of assembly are being increasingly restricted.

More than 150 dead in fire

Last Wednesday, seven adjacent apartment buildings were engulfed in flames in Hong Kong's worst fire in decades. At least 156 people lost their lives. People are still missing.

Police believe that it may not be possible to find all the bodies, as they may be completely burned.