The city's Leader Orders Probe into Deadly Fire that Claimed Lives of 151
Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 residents.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
On Wednesday last week, most of the residential blocks at the estate—which was subject to extensive renovations—went up in flames. Authorities later discovered that protective netting used around the buildings did not comply with requirements for fire resistance.
At least 13 people have been detained on suspicion of alleged culpable homicide, including the executives of a contractor.
"It is a terrible tragedy, the fire was immense. Reform is necessary. Failures have been detected in various phases. Hence we must act seriously to ensure that all these gaps are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.
Investigation and Aftermath
The inferno—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was only fully doused by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it started, and took over 2,000 fire service personnel to subdue.
On that day, police began entering the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the probe could last approximately a month.
Systemic Failures Identified
A number of occupants have stated they failed to hear a smoke detector when the blaze broke out. Local firefighters discovered that detection devices in every tower were not working effectively.
The city's construction authority has halted for now construction activities on numerous private sites.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
In a related development, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on allegations of subversion on the weekend. He was part of a collective demanding an autonomous investigation into the blaze. 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 ex-local representative, were also questioned by officers, according to press accounts.
Global Response
The rights group and Another watchdog have both condemned the reported arrests.
"This is the occasion for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the causes of the catastrophic blaze...instead of silencing those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was constructed in the early 1980s and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for around 4,600 inhabitants, according to a population count.
Nearly 40% of its occupants are estimated to be over 65 years old. Several have resided in the public housing complex since its construction.
The city's second-most fatal incident on in history killed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was the result of a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when over 600 people died.
