The city's Leader Orders Investigation into Deadly Fire that Took 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 residents.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
On Wednesday last week, seven of eight tower blocks at the housing complex—which had been undergoing extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that construction site netting surrounding the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.
A minimum of 13 people have been arrested for alleged culpable homicide, including the executives of a building firm.
"It is a terrible tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in different stages. That is exactly why we must take decisive action to make certain all these gaps are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee.
Investigation and Aftermath
The blaze—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, approximately two days after it began, and took over 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.
The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the probe could take several weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
Several residents have said they were not alerted by a fire alarm when the fire broke out. Hong Kong's fire service discovered that detection devices in every tower were not working effectively.
The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended works on 30 private projects.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
Additionally, officers took into custody a 24-year-old man on charges related to sedition on the weekend. He was among a group demanding an separate review into the fire. An internet-based appeal gathered more than 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.
A pair of additional persons, including a former district councillor, were also taken in by officers, as reported by press accounts.
Global Response
The human rights organization and The monitoring body have both denounced the alleged detentions.
"Now is the time for the local government to transparently investigate the causes of the catastrophic blaze...rather than suppressing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said.
Background and Resident Profile
Wang Fuk Court was completed in the early 1980s and had offered 1,984 apartments for some 4,600 occupants, according to a recent official survey.
Nearly 40% of its residents are estimated to be older than 65 years of age. A number have lived in the public housing complex since it was built.
Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on in history claimed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in 1918, when over 600 attendees died.
