"Thousands have turned out to pay tribute to the victims, who include at least nine domestic helpers from Indonesia and one from the Philippines, with lines of mourners stretching more than a kilometre (a half-mile) along a canal next to the estate. Vigils are also due to take place this week in Tokyo, London and Taipei, authorities said. Amid pockets of public anger over missed fire risk warnings and evidence of unsafe construction practices, Beijing has warned it would crack down on any "anti-China" protests."
"Tests on several samples of a green mesh that was wrapped around bamboo scaffolding on the buildings at the time of the blaze did not match fire retardant standards, officials overseeing the investigations told a news conference. Contractors working on the renovations used these substandard materials in hard-to-reach areas, effectively hiding them from inspectors, said Chief Secretary Eric Chan. Foam insulation used by contractors also fanned the flames and fire alarms at the complex were not working properly, officials have said."
Police have completed sweeps of four of the seven towers at the Wang Fuk Court estate, finding bodies in stairwells and on rooftops of residents trapped while fleeing flames. Authorities expect to finish searches of all buildings within three weeks. Around 40 people remain missing. Tests of a green mesh wrapped around bamboo scaffolding did not meet fire retardant standards, and contractors used substandard materials in hard-to-reach areas, effectively hiding them from inspectors. Foam insulation fuelled the fire and fire alarms were not working properly. The death toll rose after five more bodies were found, and thousands have gathered to mourn. Vigils are planned abroad, and authorities have warned against anti-China protests while law enforcement has detained at least one petitioner.
Read at Irish Independent
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