The city's Chief Executive Orders Investigation into Fatal Inferno that Killed 151
The city's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to probe the origins of a catastrophic blaze that claimed the lives of 151 individuals.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to significant upgrades—went up in flames. Authorities later discovered that construction site netting used around the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.
At least 13 suspects have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, including the directors of a building firm.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Reform is necessary. Failures have been detected in various phases. Hence we must respond rigorously to make certain all these deficiencies are eliminated," stated the leader.
Investigation and Aftermath
The blaze—which spread quickly both upwards and between the blocks—was only fully doused by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it began, and required over 2,000 firefighters to bring under control.
The same day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the inquiry could take three to four weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
A number of occupants have stated they failed to hear a emergency siren when the fire broke out. The city's fire department discovered that detection devices in all eight blocks were not working effectively.
The city's construction authority has put on hold renovation projects on 30 private projects.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
In a related development, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on allegations of sedition on the weekend. He was among a collective petitioning for an separate review into the fire. An internet-based appeal collected in excess of 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its page was taken down.
A pair of additional persons, comprising a ex-local representative, were also detained by officers, per news outlets.
Global Response
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both criticised the reported arrests.
"Now is the time for the local government to transparently investigate the causes of the devastating fire...instead of suppressing those who ask legitimate questions," remarked the group.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was constructed in the early 1980s and had provided close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, per a recent official survey.
Approximately 40 percent of its occupants are estimated to be over 65 years of age. Several have resided in the subsidised housing estate from its inception.
The city's second-worst blaze on file took 176 people in 1948 and was the result of a ground-floor explosion at a multi-story storage facility. The most deadly was at a sporting venue in 1918, when more than 600 people perished.
