Hong Kong’s national-security office summoned representatives of foreign news media including The Wall Street Journal and criticized coverage of the deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court, while warning against reporting that would undermine Hong Kong or its authorities.

The massive blaze at a high-rise housing estate killed at least 159 people, including 10 domestic helpers, highlighting the critical role they play in the Chinese territory.

For many, it was already too late. Within hours, seven of the eight towers in Wang Fuk Court were ablaze. The inferno raged for nearly two days, burning victims beyond recognition in their apartments. Lee said on Tuesday that 30 people are still missing.

The government is pushing hard to raise turnout in an election overshadowed by a deadly fire and public anger over safety lapses and official accountability.

Officials are rushing to tamp down anger over the blaze, which killed at least 159 people in the Chinese territory’s deadliest fire in almost 80 years.

Hong Kong grieves after a fire at Wang Fuk Court kills 159, leaving shattered homes, lost memories, and a city united in sorrow and solidarity

Despite a history of safety violations, the contractor for Wang Fuk Court renovations was presented to residents as having a clean record.

The death toll of Hong Kong’s high-rise apartment blaze rose to 159 on Wednesday, as authorities arrested six people on suspicion of deactivating some fire alarms during maintenance work at the housing complex.