🔗 Share this article Hong Kong Chief Executive Directs Investigation into Tragic Fire that Claimed Lives of 151 The city's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 residents. Video depicts speed of blaze propagation in Hong Kong high-rise. A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale On Wednesday last week, the majority of the tower blocks at the housing complex—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting surrounding the buildings did not comply with fire safety regulations. No fewer than 13 suspects have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, among them the directors of a construction company. "This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in different stages. Hence we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these deficiencies are eliminated," stated the leader. The Probe and Its Consequences The blaze—which spread quickly both vertically and from building to building—was finally put out by Friday morning, around 40 hours after it ignited, and required in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to subdue. The same day, authorities started accessing the buildings to collect forensic material. Officials state the investigation could require several weeks. The inferno is the most fatal the region has witnessed in more than 70 years. Shortcomings Uncovered A number of occupants have stated they failed to hear a emergency siren when the incident started. Local firefighters found that detection devices in each building were not working effectively. Hong Kong's buildings department has put on hold renovation projects on numerous private sites. Demands for Probe and Detentions In a related development, officers took into custody a individual on charges related to incitement on Saturday. He was part of a gathering petitioning for an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal collected over 10,000 endorsements in under 24 hours before its information was removed. Two other people, among them a former district councillor, were also detained by police, according to press accounts. Chief executive John Lee said that the inquiry would be chaired by a judicial officer. International Reaction Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both criticised the reported arrests. "This is the occasion for the local government to openly examine the origins of the devastating fire...instead of silencing those who pose valid inquiries," remarked the group. Historical Context and Demographics Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had offered 1,984 apartments for approximately 4,600 occupants, according to a recent official survey. Almost four in ten of its occupants are estimated to be over 65 years of age. A number have lived in the government-supported development from its inception. The city's second-most fatal incident on in history claimed 176 people in 1948 and was caused by a detonation at street level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when more than 600 individuals perished.