The city's Chief Executive Orders Probe into Deadly Blaze that Took 151

Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that took a minimum of 151 residents.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, seven of eight residential blocks at the Wang Fuk Court—which was subject to extensive renovations—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that protective netting surrounding the buildings failed to meet requirements for fire resistance.

A minimum of 13 people have been detained on suspicion of alleged culpable homicide, including the directors of a contractor.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. Yes, we have identified failures in different stages. Hence we must take decisive action to make certain all these deficiencies are eliminated," stated the leader.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, approximately two days after it ignited, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 emergency responders to bring under control.

The same day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could last three to four weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Several residents have stated they failed to hear a emergency siren when the incident started. Hong Kong's fire service found that warning systems in every tower were malfunctioning.

Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now construction activities on three dozen private developments.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

In a related development, authorities are said to have arrested a individual on charges related to sedition on Saturday. He was among a group demanding an separate review into the blaze. An internet-based appeal gathered in excess of 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its information was removed.

Another two individuals, comprising a past council member, were also questioned by authorities, according to press accounts.

Global Response

The human rights organization and The monitoring body have both denounced the reported arrests.

"This is the occasion for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the devastating fire...instead of silencing those who ask legitimate questions," remarked the group.

Historical Context and Demographics

The residential complex was built in 1983 and had offered close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 residents, per a recent official survey.

Almost four in ten of its inhabitants are estimated to be older than 65 years old. Several have lived in the government-supported development since its construction.

Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on record killed 176 individuals in 1948 and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a local racetrack in 1918, when more than 600 attendees died.