Hong Kong Chief Executive Directs Probe into Deadly Blaze that Took 151

The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that took a minimum of 151 individuals.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the estate—which had been undergoing major refurbishment—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting used around the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.

At least 13 individuals have been taken into custody over suspected manslaughter, comprising the senior figures of a contractor.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in different stages. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to make certain all these deficiencies are addressed," stated the leader.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The blaze—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was only fully doused by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it began, and necessitated over 2,000 firefighters to contain.

On that day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could last several weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have reported they failed to hear a smoke detector when the blaze started. Local firefighters determined that warning systems in every tower were malfunctioning.

The relevant regulatory body has put on hold renovation projects on numerous private sites.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, police reportedly detained a individual on charges related to subversion on Saturday. He was involved with a collective demanding an separate review into the fire. An online petition gathered in excess of 10,000 endorsements in less than a day before its information was removed.

Another two individuals, comprising a former district councillor, were also questioned by police, as reported by press accounts.

International Reaction

Amnesty International and The monitoring body have both denounced the alleged detentions.

"Now is the time for the city's officials to transparently investigate the reasons of the catastrophic blaze...rather than silencing those who raise appropriate concerns," stated the organization.

Historical Context and Demographics

The housing estate was completed in 1983 and had offered close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, based on a population count.

Approximately 40 percent of its residents are believed to be older than 65 years of age. A number have been occupants of the government-supported development since it was built.

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on in history killed 176 individuals in 1948 and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The deadliest was at a local racetrack in 1918, when in excess of 600 people lost their lives.