The city's Leader Orders Probe into Deadly Blaze that Claimed Lives of 151

The city's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an separate inquiry panel to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

Last Wednesday, seven of eight residential blocks at the estate—which had been undergoing major refurbishment—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that protective netting installed on the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.

No fewer than 13 suspects have been arrested for alleged culpable homicide, among them the senior figures of a contractor.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in different stages. Hence we must act seriously to make certain all these loopholes are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The inferno—which spread quickly both vertically and between the blocks—was only fully doused by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it started, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

That very day, authorities started accessing the buildings to gather evidence. Officials state the investigation could take several weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have said they did not hear a fire alarm when the fire erupted. Local firefighters found that detection devices in each building were malfunctioning.

The city's construction authority has put on hold works on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on suspicion of subversion on Saturday. He was involved with a gathering demanding an separate review into the blaze. An online petition collected more than 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its page was taken down.

Another two individuals, comprising a ex-local representative, were also taken in by authorities, per press accounts.

Global Response

The rights group and Another watchdog have both criticised the said apprehensions.

"Now is the time for the city's officials to transparently investigate the origins of the tragic incident...rather than muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was completed in 1983 and had supplied close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 inhabitants, according to a 2021 government census.

Nearly 40% of its inhabitants are estimated to be over 65 years old. Some have lived in the government-supported development since it was built.

The city's second-most fatal incident on record killed 176 individuals in 1948 and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when over 600 individuals perished.