Hong Kong officials have held a moment of silence at the start of a three-day mourning period to remember those killed after the city's deadliest fire in nearly 80 years.
At least 128 people are now known to have died in the fire, which engulfed seven tower blocks on Wednesday. A further 83 were injured and 150 remain unaccounted for.
Eight people have been arrested on suspicion of corruption over the renovation works the blocks had been undergoing. Three others were detained earlier on manslaughter charges.
The cause of the fire has yet to be determined, but officials have stated it spread rapidly due to flammable materials placed on the exterior of the buildings.
Saturday morning's ceremony was held outside government headquarters, with city leader John Lee and other officials observing three minutes of silence. The flags of China and Hong Kong were flown at half mast. Memorial points have also been established across the city for the public to pay their respects and sign condolence books.
The fire initiated in Wang Fuk Court, located in Hong Kong's northern Tai Po district, and took over 2,000 firefighters almost two days to bring under control. Although the exact cause of the fire remains unclear, investigation into the rapid spread involves inquiries into the use of materials like polystyrene on the exterior and construction practices in the area.
This incident has sparked significant anger among residents and citizens as concerns arise regarding building safety regulations and negligence, with reports indicating malfunctioning fire alarms at Wang Fuk Court.
