Firefighters have rescued 20 individuals from a burning tower block in Dagenham, where a blaze engulfed the entire building. Over 200 firefighters participated in a significant search and rescue operation, evacuating more than 80 residents, including children. Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne of the London Fire Brigade confirmed that all individuals had been accounted for and the fire was under control.

The mixed-use residential and commercial building had been flagged for numerous fire safety issues, including the presence of non-compliant cladding. Recent enforcement notices highlighted significant concerns, and an investigation into the fire's cause is underway, particularly regarding the role of the cladding.

Residents described chaotic scenes as they fled, often with little more than the clothes on their backs. Many have been relocated to a leisure center for shelter, facing an uncertain future as they process the loss of their homes.

The fire has raised serious questions about safety regulations and enforcement, as survivors recount the absence of fire alarms and the rapid spread of flames. Authorities are now tasked with understanding the incident's cause and preventing future tragedies.