A deadly fire at Hong Kong's Wang Fuk Court apartment complex killed 161 people on November 26. Residents warned officials for years about a dangerous renovation project. The government ordered repairs on the aging towers. Residents alleged extortionate sums were paid for shoddy work using flammable materials. They suspected a corrupt syndicate controlled the project. Residents claimed the owners board and construction firms acted against their interests. They alerted local media to a politician possibly colluding with the board's leaders. One resident even burned a piece of the flammable polystyrene foam used in the renovation. Thousands were displaced by the two-day blaze. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire and the validity of the residents' claims. The Wang Fuk Court estate consists of eight aging towers. The government initiated the renovation project to improve the buildings' condition. Authorities are now facing scrutiny over their response to the residents' repeated warnings. Further investigation and potential legal action are expected.
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