Hong Kong Leader Directs Probe into Fatal Blaze that Took 151

The city's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to probe the origins of a catastrophic blaze that took a minimum of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, seven of eight tower blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting used around the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.

At least 13 suspects have been taken into custody over suspected manslaughter, including the executives of a building firm.

"It is a terrible tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. This is precisely the reason we must take decisive action to make certain all these deficiencies are addressed," stated the leader.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The blaze—advancing with speed both upwards and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, approximately two days after it ignited, and took in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to contain.

On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to collect forensic material. The government indicates the inquiry could take three to four weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Multiple inhabitants have reported they failed to hear a fire alarm when the fire erupted. Local firefighters determined that alarms in each building were not working effectively.

Hong Kong's buildings department has put on hold works on three dozen private developments.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Separately, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on allegations of subversion on the weekend. He was involved with a gathering demanding an autonomous investigation into the blaze. An internet-based appeal collected more than 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its page was taken down.

Two other people, among them a ex-local representative, were also questioned by police, according to local media reports.

International Reaction

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both denounced the said apprehensions.

"The moment has come for the city's officials to openly examine the reasons of the tragic incident...as opposed to muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," stated the organization.

Background and Resident Profile

The housing estate was completed in the early 1980s and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for around 4,600 inhabitants, per a population count.

Nearly 40% of its occupants are estimated to be at least 65 years of age. Some have resided in the subsidised housing estate since it was built.

The city's second-worst blaze on record took 176 people in the mid-20th century and was the result of a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a sporting venue in 1918, when over 600 people died.