The city's Chief Executive Orders Probe into Fatal Fire that Killed 151
Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 people.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
On Wednesday last week, most of the residential blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to significant upgrades—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting surrounding the buildings fell short of fire safety regulations.
No fewer than 13 people have been detained on suspicion of suspected manslaughter, comprising the senior figures of a construction company.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, the fire was immense. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in different stages. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to ensure that all these gaps are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The inferno—advancing with speed both vertically and between the blocks—was finally put out by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it began, and required more than 2,000 emergency responders to subdue.
On that day, police began entering the buildings to gather evidence. Officials state the probe 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. Hong Kong's fire service discovered that warning systems in every tower were not working effectively.
Hong Kong's buildings department has temporarily suspended renovation projects on three dozen private developments.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
Additionally, police reportedly detained a young man on allegations of subversion on the weekend. He was part of a collective calling for an independent inquiry into the fire. An online petition amassed in excess of 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its contents were wiped.
Another two individuals, comprising a past council member, were also taken in by police, as reported by local media reports.
Global Response
The human rights organization and Human Rights Watch have both criticised the reported arrests.
"The moment has come for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the reasons of the devastating fire...rather than suppressing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said.
Background and Resident Profile
Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had offered nearly two thousand flats for around 4,600 inhabitants, according to a recent official survey.
Approximately 40 percent of its inhabitants are estimated to be over 65 years of age. Some have been occupants of the government-supported development from its inception.
Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on record claimed 176 lives in 1948 and was caused by a detonation at street level at a five-storey warehouse. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in 1918, when in excess of 600 attendees lost their lives.
