A week after a deadly fire forced thousands from their homes in Hong Kong, some residents returned on Wednesday (Dec 3) to the damaged Wang Fuk Court complex to gather belongings. Those living in the only block that survived the 40-hour blaze were escorted inside by government staff and given 90 minutes to collect items, while seven other blocks were completely burned down.

More than 4,000 residents were displaced in what became the city’s worst fire in decades. Many are now staying in temporary shelters, and authorities have not confirmed when the unaffected block will be safe to re-enter as a criminal investigation continues. A 60-year-old woman surnamed Lam, waiting to retrieve items from her home, said everything she owned was still inside.

Police are still searching the seven destroyed buildings, a process expected to take weeks due to dangerous conditions and the challenge of identifying remains—some found in stairwells, rooftops, and others reduced to ash. Around 30 people are still missing. So far, 15 individuals have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, and the city’s anti-corruption agency has opened a separate inquiry. Hong Kong’s leader has also ordered an independent judge-led investigation.

According to the government, over 2,600 residents are now in temporary accommodation, including more than 1,000 in hostels, camps, or hotels, and 1,607 in transitional housing. A 71-year-old woman surnamed Leung said she cannot sleep knowing her home and a lifetime of possessions are gone. She and her husband were placed in transitional housing, but found it too small and far from transport, so they are now staying with their daughter. Her daughter, Bonnie Leung, said it was hard to believe that such a deadly disaster could occur in Hong Kong, adding that losing their home has been devastating.

Amid rising calls for transparency, Chief Executive John Lee has appointed a judge-led committee to examine the fire and review oversight of renovation works. Authorities previously told residents that the estate posed “relatively low fire risks,” despite their complaints. Investigators now say cheap plastic mesh and insulation foam used during renovations helped fuel the blaze. Despite the tragedy, Lee said Sunday’s legislative elections will proceed as scheduled, a decision criticised by residents like a 31-year-old woman surnamed Yeung, who said it was inappropriate given the city’s trauma. Turnout in the election—restricted to government-approved “patriot” candidates—may reflect public anger over the disaster’s handling.