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The tragic death toll from the major residential block blaze in Hong Kong has now reached 159, while city officials have mandated the removal of all protective netting across the city by this Saturday.

A Fatal Inferno That Became a Global Tragedy

The blaze that swept through Wang Fuk Court in the northern Tai Po district last week now stands as the world’s deadliest apartment block blaze to occur since 1980.

Law enforcement have indicated that the fatality count may still be revised, as investigators discovered "suspected human bones" that need further forensic testing.

“It is my wish that people can come here to lay their grief to rest,” remarked one of the organisers, noting that the victims suffered “many injustices.”

Netting Blamed for Quick Escalation of Fire

Authorities have earlier said the disaster at the housing complex, which was undergoing major renovations, was probably exacerbated by the installation of mesh that did not meet safety regulations.

The flames are said to have quickly covered the exteriors of the apartment blocks, which were wrapped in bamboo scaffolding, protective netting, and insulation panels.

In reaction, the secretary for development on Wednesday instructed all Hong Kong buildings receiving substantial upkeep to take down the mesh by Saturday. This directive is expected to affect approximately 200 structures across the city.

A City in Mourning

Mourners have kept coming to a public garden near the fire-damaged buildings, placing hundreds of bouquets and messages of condolence for the victims. The youngest victim was just one year old, and the oldest was 97.

Areas within the park were adorned with rows of paper cranes, and helpers handed out paper and pens to visitors.

One 26-year-old visitor, described the location as a “bridge,” allowing for “communication and the expression of grief through this silent bond” with those who perished.

Aftermath and Arrests

Residents of the sole unaffected tower were allowed to return home briefly on Wednesday to collect personal items.

Authorities stated that over 2,900 residents have been provided with temporary housing.

Police have earlier arrested a total of 15 people, including building firm executives, on charges related to manslaughter.

A additional six people have been arrested on a different charge, concerning the estate’s safety alarms which failed to work at the time of the blaze.

Calls for Calm and Warnings

While the disaster has led to widespread demands for responsibility and change, officials are also watching out for any public disturbance connected with the incident.

The chief executive has warned against crimes that “exploit the tragedy.”

In a different announcement, the national security office denounced what it called “external hostile forces” that have “taken advantage of the disaster to stir up trouble and incite chaos.”

The office stated that “all acts and words aimed at undermining the city’s stability will be documented and investigated indefinitely,” and that “all conspiracies to cause disruption will have no place to hide.”

News outlets reportedly detailed the detentions of a number of people over the weekend, including a university student and a ex-local representative, for alleged sedition. Both men were later seen leaving police stations.

In a connected event, a campus message board run by a student union was blocked off on Wednesday. A note stuck to the board, which could still be seen behind barricades, said: “We are the people of Hong Kong. Urge the government to address public demands so fairness may prevail.”