No Uzbek citizens reported among Hong Kong fire victims – MFA

MFA spokesperson Akhror Burkhanov stated that Uzbekistan’s diplomatic missions in China are in contact with local authorities following the tragedy.

“We are deeply saddened by reports of casualties resulting from the tragic fire at a residential complex in Hong Kong. We extend our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and wish a swift recovery to all those injured,” Burkhanov said in a statement.

He told Kun.uz that “so far, no Uzbek citizens are among the dead or injured”, adding that the issue remains under the ministry’s constant supervision.

Burkhanov also noted that Uzbek nationals in need of assistance can reach the following diplomatic missions:

• Embassy of Uzbekistan in China: +86 185 1441 7274, +86 (10) 6532 6305; Email: [email protected]
• Consulate General in Shanghai: +86 132 4800 8171
• Consulate General in Guangzhou: +86 132 4970 0996

Death toll continues to rise

By 28 November, Hong Kong firefighters discovered dozens more bodies in several buildings affected by the massive blaze, bringing the confirmed death toll to at least 128, in what officials described as the deadliest fire in the city’s history.

According to a spokesperson for the Hong Kong Fire Services Department, search teams prioritized apartments from which emergency calls had been received and continued examining all affected areas.

The additional bodies increased the number of confirmed victims by 34. Officials said search efforts were ongoing and warned that the death toll could rise further.

AP reported that the identities of 89 recovered bodies have not yet been established, while around 200 people remain missing.

The fire broke out on Wednesday afternoon at the Wang Fuk Court complex, where bamboo scaffolding wrapped in netting for renovation work rapidly ignited and spread to seven buildings.

The blaze was declared “fully extinguished” only on Friday morning. A total of 2,300 firefighters and medical workers were involved in the operation. Among the 79 injured were 12 firefighters, while one firefighter died in the line of duty.

Authorities said eight people aged between 40 and 63, including one woman, have been arrested in connection with the case. According to AP, citing the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), those detained include subcontractors, a director of an engineering consulting firm, and project managers responsible for the renovation work.