Victor Dawes

Victor Dawes is the lead counsel for the independent committee investigating the November 26 Tai Po fire at Wang Fuk Court, Hong Kong's deadliest blaze in decades, which claimed 168 lives. He is newsworthy because he is leading the questioning of witnesses and presenting evidence during the inquiry's hearings. Recent developments include the committee scrutinizing the actions and omissions of various parties, including the property management firm (ISS EastPoint), fire services companies (Victory Fire Engineering), the Fire Services Department, and individual workers. The inquiry is examining issues such as deactivated fire safety systems, lack of on-site inspections, failure to identify and follow up on fire hazards, and communication failures. Dawes' role is significant as the inquiry aims to determine the causes of the fire and identify potential systemic failures to prevent future tragedies, potentially leading to law changes and tougher penalties.