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Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to examine the reasons of a devastating fire that took a minimum of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

Last Wednesday, seven of eight residential blocks at the housing complex—which had been undergoing significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting installed on the buildings fell short of requirements for fire resistance.

At least 13 people have been arrested for potential negligent homicide, comprising the executives of a building firm.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. This is precisely the reason we must take decisive action to guarantee all these loopholes are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The inferno—that propagated rapidly both vertically and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, approximately two days after it started, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to collect forensic material. Authorities say the inquiry could require several weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Multiple inhabitants have stated they did not hear a fire alarm when the blaze erupted. Hong Kong's fire service discovered that warning systems in each building were malfunctioning.

The city's construction authority has halted for now construction activities on numerous private sites.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on suspicion of subversion on Saturday. He was among a gathering calling for an autonomous investigation into the blaze. An internet-based appeal amassed in excess of 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its information was removed.

Another two individuals, including a former district councillor, were also questioned by police, according to local media reports.

International Reaction

The human rights organization and The monitoring body have both condemned the reported arrests.

"Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to thoroughly and publicly probe the origins of the catastrophic blaze...as opposed to muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.

Background and Resident Profile

The housing estate was built in the early 1980s and had offered nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 occupants, based on a 2021 government census.

Nearly 40% of its residents are estimated to be older than 65 years old. A number have lived in the public housing complex from its inception.

Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on in history took 176 individuals in 1948 and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The most deadly was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when more than 600 individuals lost their lives.