The city's Leader Directs Investigation into Tragic Fire that Took 151
Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to examine the reasons of a catastrophic blaze that claimed the lives of 151 residents.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
This past Wednesday, the majority of the apartment buildings at the estate—which had been undergoing major refurbishment—were engulfed by fire. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting installed on the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.
At least 13 individuals have been arrested for potential negligent homicide, including the senior figures of a contractor.
"It is a terrible tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. Yes, we have identified failures in multiple areas. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to guarantee all these deficiencies are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The blaze—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, approximately two days after it ignited, and necessitated more than 2,000 emergency responders to contain.
The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the investigation could take approximately a month.
Systemic Failures Identified
Multiple inhabitants have stated they were not alerted by a fire alarm when the incident broke out. Hong Kong's fire service determined that detection devices in each building were operating inadequately.
Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now renovation projects on 30 private projects.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Separately, police reportedly detained a young man on charges related to subversion on Saturday. He was part of a group demanding an separate review into the tragedy. An internet-based appeal collected over 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its information was removed.
Another two individuals, including a former district councillor, were also taken in by officers, according to press accounts.
International Reaction
Amnesty International and Another watchdog have both denounced the alleged detentions.
"This is the occasion for the city's officials to transparently investigate the origins of the devastating fire...as opposed to muzzling those who ask legitimate questions," remarked the group.
Background and Resident Profile
Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had supplied close to 2,000 units for around 4,600 residents, according to a recent official survey.
Almost four in ten of its residents are thought to be at least 65 years of age. A number have lived in the public housing complex since its construction.
Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on in history killed 176 individuals in 1948 and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The most deadly was at a local racetrack in 1918, when more than 600 attendees perished.
