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The devastating death toll from the major residential block blaze in Hong Kong has now reached 159, as city officials have mandated the taking down of all scaffolding mesh across the city by this Saturday.

A Fatal Inferno That Became a Worldwide Disaster

The blaze that swept through Wang Fuk Court in the northern Tai Po district last week now is considered the world’s deadliest apartment block blaze recorded since 1980.

Law enforcement have stated that the fatality count may still be revised, as officers discovered "suspected human bones" that require additional analysis.

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

Netting Blamed for Rapid Spread of Fire

Officials have earlier said the disaster at the estate, which was undergoing major renovations, was probably exacerbated by the installation of mesh that did not meet fire-resistance standards.

The flames are said to have quickly covered the exteriors of the apartment blocks, which were encased in scaffolding poles, protective netting, and foam boards.

In response, the development chief 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 continued to stream to a small park near the fire-damaged buildings, placing hundreds of bouquets and notes of remembrance for the victims. The most junior victim was a one-year-old, and the oldest was 97.

Sections of the park were decorated with lines of colourful origami cranes, and volunteers handed out paper and pens to visitors.

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

Fallout and Detentions

Residents of the sole unaffected tower were permitted to go back shortly on Wednesday to collect personal items.

Officials stated that more than 2,900 residents have been provided with short-term accommodation.

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

A additional six people have been taken into custody on a separate allegation, concerning the estate’s safety alarms which malfunctioned at the moment the fire started.

Appeals for Order and Caution

While the catastrophe has spurred widespread demands for responsibility and reform, leaders are also watching out for any public disturbance linked to the incident.

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

In a different announcement, the national security office condemned what it called “outside agitators” that have “taken advantage of the disaster to create unrest and incite chaos.”

The office wrote that “any actions or speech aimed at undermining the city’s stability will be recorded and pursued for life,” and that “all conspiracies to disrupt Hong Kong will have nowhere to conceal themselves.”

Local media reportedly covered the detentions of several individuals over the weekend, including a 24-year-old student and a former district councillor, for suspected sedition. Both men were later seen leaving police stations.

In a connected event, a university noticeboard operated by a student union was blocked off on Wednesday. A message placed on the board, which could still be seen behind barriers, read: “We are the people of Hong Kong. We urge the government to respond to public demands so justice can be done.”