The city's Chief Executive Directs Probe into Deadly Fire that Killed 151

The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

Last Wednesday, the majority of the tower blocks at the estate—that was in the midst of major refurbishment—were consumed by a blaze. Authorities later discovered that construction site netting surrounding the buildings fell short of flame retardant standards.

No fewer than 13 people have been detained on suspicion of potential negligent homicide, including the senior figures of a construction company.

"This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to guarantee all these deficiencies are addressed," stated the leader.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The blaze—that propagated rapidly both vertically and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it ignited, and required over 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the investigation could take several weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Several residents have said they failed to hear a emergency siren when the fire started. The city's fire department found that warning systems in each building were malfunctioning.

The relevant regulatory body has halted for now construction activities on 30 private projects.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Additionally, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on suspicion of incitement on the weekend. He was among a collective calling for an independent inquiry into the blaze. An internet-based appeal gathered over 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its contents were wiped.

Another two individuals, comprising a former district councillor, were also detained by authorities, according to news outlets.

Global Response

Amnesty International and Another watchdog have both denounced the alleged detentions.

"Now is the time for the local government to transparently investigate the causes of the devastating fire...as opposed to silencing those who ask legitimate questions," remarked the group.

Historical Context and Demographics

The housing estate was constructed in the early 1980s and had provided close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 inhabitants, based on a recent official survey.

Almost four in ten of its residents are believed to be at least 65 years old. Some have lived in the government-supported development since it was built.

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on file claimed 176 lives in 1948 and was caused by a detonation at street level at a multi-story storage facility. The most deadly was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 attendees perished.