The city's Chief Executive Orders Probe into Fatal Blaze that Took 151
The city's leader, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an independent committee to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 individuals.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
On Wednesday last week, seven of eight tower blocks at the Wang Fuk Court—which had been undergoing significant upgrades—were engulfed by fire. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting used around the buildings did not comply with requirements for fire resistance.
A minimum of 13 suspects have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, including the directors of a construction company.
"It is a terrible tragedy, it is a big fire. Reform is necessary. Failures have been detected in different stages. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to guarantee all these deficiencies are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee.
Investigation and Aftermath
The fire—which spread quickly both vertically and across the separate towers—was finally put out by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it began, and took over 2,000 emergency responders to bring under control.
The same day, authorities started accessing the buildings to collect forensic material. Authorities say the inquiry could take three to four weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
A number of occupants have stated they failed to hear a smoke detector when the fire erupted. Hong Kong's fire service determined that alarms in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.
The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended works on 30 private projects.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
In a related development, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on suspicion of sedition on the weekend. He was among a group petitioning for an separate review into the tragedy. An internet-based appeal amassed in excess of 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its contents were wiped.
Two other people, comprising a past council member, were also taken in by authorities, as reported by local media reports.
International Reaction
The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both condemned the said apprehensions.
"Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the reasons of the tragic incident...rather than suppressing those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization.
Historical Context and Demographics
The residential complex was built in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, based on a population count.
Almost four in ten of its occupants are believed to be over 65 years old. A number have lived in the government-supported development since it was built.
The city's second-worst blaze on file claimed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when over 600 people perished.
