A devastating fire engulfed a residential complex in Hong Kong, causing the death of at least 55 people and injuring 123, including eight firefighters. Authorities have opened a criminal investigation, suspecting gross negligence by the construction company involved in the renovation of the buildings. Three men, including two company directors, have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. The fire spread rapidly, and experts believe that the bamboo scaffolding and other flammable materials contributed to the spread of the fire. Authorities are also investigating possible acts of corruption related to the renovations carried out.
Although the exact cause of the fire has not been established, the hypothesis that the fire may have been caused by a spark is being considered. Additionally, the reasons why the evacuation of the buildings was not carried out more quickly are being analyzed. The government has announced its intention to reduce the use of bamboo scaffolding for safety reasons, replacing them with fire-resistant wooden structures.
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