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By KANIS LEUNG

HONG KONG (AP) — The deadliest fire in Hong Kong in decades last year left thousands of residents without some of their friends, family or the place they called home. More than two months later, the occupants of the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex are not only waiting for answers about what happened, but longing for a new place.

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Authorities are yet to unveil plans for long-term resettlement after surveying the residents’ preferences. The Lunar New Year on Feb. 17, meanwhile, is stirring recent memories of celebrating the festival in what is now a largely burnt complex.

The massive blaze that engulfed seven apartment buildings killed 168 people on Nov. 26, 2025, shattering a close-knit community. Authorities blamed substandard scaffolding netting and foam boards from the buildings maintenance project for rapidly spreading the fire. Although some arrests were made, an independent committee is still investigating the cause.

The Associated Press talked to four families who lived in the complex or lost their loved ones there. Here’s what they said:

No place to call home

When flames devoured towers of the Wang Fuk Court complex, Pearl Chow, 87, fled her apartment with essential documents, like her title deed. Her grandson, Dorz Cheung, 33, rushed from his office to find her safe nearby, but the fire was raging.

That night, Chow went to a friend’s home and didn’t sleep, while Cheung watched the flames for hours, crying while clutching his friend. They both miss old photos lost in their home in Tai Po, a suburban district in the city’s north.

Now they are separated into two temporary housing units on separate floors, each around 100 square feet. Chow was satisfied, but Cheung couldn’t call it home.

“Only permanent residence is called home. That’s the root,” he said.

Chow still regularly returns to Tai Po for church and grocery shopping, despite the hourlong journey. They want to be resettled in Tai Po, where they lived for decades, in a unit about the same size as their old apartment.

“I am an elderly person. When they finish building, I may have gone to my heavenly home,” she said with a laugh.

Data from the 2021 population census showed over one-third of some 4,600 residents in the complex were aged 65 or above.

While the government proposed measures to combat bid-rigging in building maintenance and enhance fire safety in January, Cheung feels their resettlement hasn’t been addressed. He said he lost his sense of security with the authorities after the blaze.

“We can only wait, be tossed around like a ball,” he said.

A temporary refuge

Kit Chan, 74, lived in her 460-square-foot apartment for over 40 years and raised her children with her husband in the complex, where neighbors helped look after each other’s children.

Chan had planned to spend the rest of her life there, but the blaze forced the couple into a studio unit at a youth hostel half the size of their apartment. Weeks ago, they heard some fire victims were asked to move out, and that distressed her.

“It’s like being unable to get by in my final years,” she said.

She hasn’t been asked to leave, but is uncertain how long they can stay.

Chan initially wanted to be resettled in a new home built on the fire site, but the government estimates rebuilding will take about a decade — too long for her to wait. She can compromise on a similar-sized apartment in another district with good transport.

Her husband, Keung Mak, 78, hopes they can return to their old home just to have a look. It has memories like their family and wedding photos. “Many people hope they can at least see how badly it was burned,” Mak said.

Weighing time against place

During past Lunar New Year celebrations, Isaac Tam’s family used to visit neighbors on their floor with gifts. Now, the familiar faces he has known for years are scattered across the city.

The loss of their two apartments in the fire was heartbreaking. His parents cried, and his 92-year-old grandfather grew thinner. But Tam, 23, said at least all his family members were alive.

Last weekend, they were preparing to move into temporary homes, smaller than their old apartments and farther from the city center. They shelled out money to renovate them.

While he said the government’s handling is not as bad as some say, he still worries about his grandfather adjusting to a new district with temporary housing. Back in Tai Po, the grandfather used to have a morning dim sum routine with his friends.

As they await the government’s resettlement plans, they have been weighing apartments in another district that will be ready sooner than units in Tai Po, which he prefers because he grew up there.

Time is their priority, given the grandfather’s age, Tam said.

“I also fear he can’t wait until we secure an apartment of about 400 square feet,” he said, regardless of the district.

Grieving for mother and hanging on to memories

Phyllis Lo’s mother called her after seeing thick smoke outside her door when the blaze started. On the call, knowing she might not survive, her 74-year-old mother asked Lo, 48, and her brother to live well. Lo immediately rushed to her childhood home and called again minutes later. No one answered. The next morning, police told her they found her mother’s body.

After learning that a mix of issues including substandard materials were used in the building maintenance project and failed fire alarms, Lo wondered if the tragedy could have been avoided if each government department had done a better job. While she couldn’t determine who should bear responsibility, she blamed herself for not monitoring the project for her mother more closely.

What bothers her most is the lack of transparency — when she can see her burnt apartment, how authorities will use the $589 million relief fund. She hopes to get updates from the nine-month investigation.

She wants her childhood home rebuilt at the fire site, but considers the proposed timeline of about a decade unreasonably long.

As the Lunar New Year neared, Lo made turnip cakes — a tradition she inherited from her mother. “Maybe she is still everywhere and still seeing us now. I really want to be with her,” she said in tears.

Rebuilding community is challenging

In an emailed reply to The Associated Press’ questions, the government said it attached great importance to the residents’ long-term accommodation arrangements and had already received survey replies from over 95% of the homeowners. It did not give a timeline but said its task force is analyzing their preferences and that the government will announce the plans after finalizing them.

Jack Rozdilsky, professor of disaster and emergency management at York University in Canada, said the city is moving to a disaster recovery phase and noted that concrete plans for continuous mental health and trauma coping aid play a key role in long-term success for any resettlement measure.

Rozdilsky saw the community survey on resettlement as a good sign because a one-size-fits-all proposal will not satisfy the households.

While rebuilding living spaces is complicated, he said, reconstructing a community is much harder. He said understanding what promoted community at the housing complex before the fire and incorporating those features — be it a bus stop or a gathering point in a park — would help.

“Very small things matter,” he said.

A Broward County middle school employee was arrested Saturday, accused of running “illicit basketball tournaments” at the school’s gym and keeping the money from the improper rentals, police said.

Shaune Cannon, 50, a behavioral technician at Forest Glen Middle School in Coral Springs, is facing one count of organized scheme to defraud $20,000 or less and one count of grand theft of more than $10,000, according to a probable cause affidavit.

He is the fourth Broward School District employee to be arrested on similar charges in recent months. Henry Lewis McNabb, a security specialist and former coach at Blanche Ely High School; Brenton Hankerson, a security specialist and girls varsity coach at Coral Springs High School; and Donald Calloway, Coral Springs High School girls’ assistant basketball coach, were all arrested in December.

“This latest arrest in the ongoing investigation by Broward Schools Police further demonstrates the Superintendent’s focus on maintaining integrity across the District and addressing any behavior that compromises the public trust,” district spokesman John Sullivan said in a statement to the South Florida Sun Sentinel.

Broward high school basketball coaches arrested, accused of fraud and theft

Bank records showed Cannon received multiple Zelle payments of $1,500 from two basketball organizations for rentals of Forest Glen Middle’s gym in April, May and June 2025, the affidavit said. As a result of the improper rentals, the “total potential losses to the district” totaled $11,545. The presidents of the organizations confirmed to police that they had paid Cannon.

Cannon resigned on Friday, a School District spokesperson confirmed. He was initially hired by the district in 2011 and worked at Ramblewood Middle School as a behavioral technician and campus monitor before joining Forest Glen Middle School in 2023.

He remained in the Broward Main Jail as of Monday night.

As of Monday night, Cannon remained listed as a boy’s basketball coach at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on the school’s roster. The student newspaper, Eagle Eye News, reported in October 2023 that Cannon joined as the school’s head basketball coach. Cannon told the student newspaper he was previously a head coach at Ramblewood Middle and  Everglades High School in Miramar.

The affidavit for Cannon’s arrest does not mention the other coaches.

The cases began on June 3, when the school district’s Special Investigative Unit “received a report of possible fraudulent activities” involving the rental of the gym at Blanche Ely, according to an arrest affidavit in McNabb’s case.

At Coral Springs High, Calloway rented out the gym from April through June 2025 for tournaments through “private agreements” with outside basketball associations, a probable cause affidavit in his case said. He allegedly arranged payments for the rentals through Hankerson, who then paid Calloway.

McNabb is accused of having held additional tournaments at Blanche Ely in the same time frame, according to an arrest report, and similar tournaments at Hollywood Hills High School.

Sun Sentinel staff writer Scott Travis contributed to this report.

General Daily Insight for February 10, 2026

Acts of service are a universal love language at present. As the emotive Moon enters Sagittarius, curiosity opens our minds to fresh ideas. Once Venus dances into Pisces at 5:18 am EST, we can let our conversations wander, with faith they’ll reveal new possibilities. We may gain the ability to forgive past wounds and offer one another emotional safety. We’re ready to listen to our loved ones genuinely, even during disagreements. Choosing our words with love and care moves complicated situations forward.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Celebrate every step forward, no matter how small. With loving Venus entering your 12th House of Karma, privacy is even more valuable than usual. Other people don’t have to see your progress for it to be meaningful. Your dreams may surface useful clues, so consider writing them down and looking up the symbolism later. If an apology is due, offer it before being pressured — that’s the best way to release the weight of the past. You’re in charge of your peace.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Keep your eyes peeled for exciting invitations. Venus, planet of connection, is twirling into your sociable 11th house, enhancing group ties and reminding your independent heart to welcome supportive networks. If a friend proposes an in-person meet-up or online project, choose the setting that matches your pace, then share an idea of your own. Your reliability builds trust, so gentle follow-through can bolster a casual pitch into something that nourishes lasting community. Reach out kindly to receive the same positive energy from those around you.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

The morning hum favors brave conversations. Relationship-oriented Venus glides into your 10th House of Status, which helps you quickly frame (or re-frame) ideas with bosses, clients, and other gatekeepers. You may get yanked into last-minute meetings, but if you’re already knowledgeable about your plan, that shouldn’t be too intimidating. You can negotiate tone as well as terms, because grace helps feedback land and keeps doors open for future options or collaborations. Polish your pitch so thoughtful allies rally around you all throughout the day.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Caring acts can be felt far and wide. With romantic Venus rolling into your 9th House of Education, your nurturing instincts are empowered to care for yourself whilst you investigate new areas of life. If you’re planning time away, do plenty of research beforehand! Look for experiences that teach love by inviting real conversations with people you meet. You can bridge differences with sincere curiosity that doesn’t discount differing points of view. Seek warmth so that it can nourish your wisdom.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Your generosity may flow down unique channels at the moment. As Venus makes her way into your powerful 8th house, you have a chance to make a difference in the lives of your loved ones. Whenever a conversation about shared expenses arises, speak frankly and invite transparency. Pay attention to everyone’s words (including your own), especially if finances are tight. Your warmth can melt guarded moments without crossing boundaries. If you want your closest connections to grow beyond surface-level smiles, lead with candor.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Good company is worth its weight in gold at this time. Connected Venus soars into your partner zone, ensuring that cooperation feels natural and fair agreements come easier. Whether you’re reviewing a contract or planning a hang-out, clarify expectations in simple language, then set a time that honors both schedules without overthinking details. Your precise eye fixes friction early by making adjustments that prevent snags and give your bonds room to blossom. When everyone pitches in, cooperation grows into enduring comfort.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Small tasks should be performed with love. Appealing Venus is parading into your 6th House of Habits, bringing sweetness to routines and smoothing dynamics, which suits a diplomatic style of handling events. You might brighten a tense email by opening with appreciation or encourage happiness by complimenting someone’s outfit. Every-day pleasures count as care, so add a touch of beauty to your workspace and enjoy a nourishing lunch to keep your energy steady. Nourishing your habits can make productivity feel natural again.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

You can access the truth indirectly — in fact, you might have to. Venus begins her journey through your theatrical 5th house today, making this an excellent time to handle sensitive topics with artistic tools. Whether you’re folding origami, sewing a quilt, or working on any other creative pursuit, you put part of yourself into your creations. You don’t have to think about the opinions of others. All that matters is your act of creation and what you get out of it.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Sagittarius, your spark lights the path ahead. With the emotional Moon in your sign, your energy is likely surging. You may feel ready to launch something exciting. On the other hand, Venus’s entry into your domestic sector could tug you closer to home. Combine these two impulses by looking into home projects, like tidying your kitchen cupboards or even repainting an entire room. Taking initiative is sometimes the only way to transform ideas into reality. Just be sure to pace yourself!

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

The universe presently favors practical, considerate messages. You’ve got the practicality, and Venus has arrived in your chatty 3rd house to gift you with verbal warmth. That way, your ideas can land without sounding stern. You may need to talk over upcoming events or plans several times, especially if they involve your neighbors or siblings. Showing one another respect encourages cooperation in busy moments. In all interactions, keep in mind the golden rule: treat others as you wish to be treated.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

A calm glow settles around your priorities. Esteemed Venus is strolling into your 2nd House of Satisfaction, supporting thoughtful choices that align with your independent values and strengthen confidence through stewardship. Review recurring subscriptions or renegotiate a service politely, because a friendly tone often brings a fair offer while you protect what matters. You can refresh your space with useful touches that make it easier for you to function on a day-to-day basis. Choose mindful spending so security grows without squeezing joy away.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

When kindness meets courage, hearts feel safe. Sweet Venus enters your thoughtful sign, empowering you with justified confidence in your powers of attraction. If you need support, ask for it — contrarily, if you don’t want well-meaning advice or gifts, say so! Be nice about it, of course, but don’t forget that you’re allowed to set boundaries. Letting your soul make authentic decisions is the best way to show up all throughout this transit. Your natural empathy can guide you through any ongoing storms.

By JAIMIE DING, Associated Press

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A federal judge on Monday blocked a California law from going into effect that would ban federal immigration agents from covering their faces, but they will still be required to wear clear identification showing their agency and badge number.

California became the first state to ban most law enforcement officers from wearing facial coverings under a bill that was signed in September following the summer of high-profile raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in Los Angeles.

The Trump administration filed a lawsuit in November challenging the laws, arguing that they would threaten the safety of officers who are facing harassment, doxing, and violence and that they violated the constitution because the state is directly regulating the federal government.

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Judge Christina Snyder said she issued the initial ruling because the mask ban as it was enacted did not also apply to state law enforcement authorities, discriminating against the federal government. The ruling could have national implications as states grapple with how to deal with federal agents enforcing the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

It left open the possibility to future legislation banning federal agents from wearing masks if it applied to all law enforcement agencies, with Snyder writing “the Court finds that federal officers can perform their federal functions without wearing masks.” The ruling will go into effect Feb. 19.

Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the bill in September banning some law enforcement officers from wearing masks, neck gaiters, and other facial coverings. It was slated to go into effect Jan. 1 but was put on hold due to the lawsuit.

In addition to exempting state law enforcement officers, it made exceptions for undercover agents, protective equipment like N95 respirators or tactical gear, and other situations where not wearing a mask would jeopardize an operation. Snyder sided with the federal government, which argued this exemption was discriminatory against federal agents.

Newsom also signed into law a measure requiring law enforcement to wear clear identification showing their agency and badge number while on the job, which was challenged by the federal government but upheld by the judge.

California State Sen. Scott Weiner, who proposed the original bill to ban facial coverings, said Monday he would immediately introduce new legislation to include state police in the law.

“ICE and Border Patrol are covering their faces to maximize their terror campaign and to insulate themselves from accountability,” Weiner said in a news release. “We will ensure our mask ban can be enforced.”

At a Jan. 14 hearing, Snyder repeatedly asked the government’s lawyer, Tiberius Davis, to explain why banning masks would impede the federal law enforcement in carrying out their duties, if officers rarely wore masks prior to 2025.

Davis cited claims by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that there has been a multifold increase in assaults and threats against federal officers. He also brought up an incident in Los Angeles where three women are being accused of livestreaming while following an ICE agent home and posting the address on Instagram.

“There is real deterrence on the officer’s safety and ability to perform their duties,” Davis said.

Cameron Bell, California Department of Justice attorney, challenged his claims, saying there was no concrete evidence that federal agents can’t perform their duties without facial coverings.

Bell referenced declarations from U.S citizens who have been detained by federal agents but thought they were being kidnapped.

“It’s obvious why these laws are in the public interest,” Bell said.

The federal government also argued in legal briefs that allowing California’s legislation could lead other states to be “emboldened to impose similar unconstitutional restraints.”

Davis cited a statement from Newsom in July 2025 during an interview posted online where he discussed the mask ban bill, saying, “It appears that we don’t have the legal authority for federal agents but we do for other law enforcement authorities.”

Los Angeles County supervisors voted in December to enact a local ordinance banning law enforcement from wearing masks that went into effect Jan. 8. However, the sheriff’s department said it would not enforce the ordinance until after the court ruled on the statewide mask ban. The Los Angeles Police Department had also said it wouldn’t enforce the mask ban.