The city's Chief Executive Orders Investigation into Deadly Blaze that Killed 151
The city's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 people.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
On Wednesday last week, seven of eight tower blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that protective netting installed on the buildings fell short of flame retardant standards.
At least 13 people have been taken into custody over potential negligent 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. That is exactly why we must take decisive action to guarantee all these deficiencies are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The blaze—which spread quickly both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it started, and required over 2,000 firefighters to subdue.
The same day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the investigation could take three to four weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
Several residents have stated they did not hear a fire alarm when the incident erupted. Local firefighters determined that warning systems in all eight blocks were not working effectively.
Hong Kong's buildings department has put on hold renovation projects on 30 private projects.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Separately, police reportedly detained a individual on allegations of sedition on Saturday. He was part of a group demanding an autonomous investigation into the fire. An online petition collected over 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its contents were wiped.
Two other people, comprising a past council member, were also questioned by police, as reported by press accounts.
Global Response
The human rights organization and The monitoring body have both criticised the alleged detentions.
"This is the occasion for the local government to openly examine the origins of the catastrophic blaze...instead of silencing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.
Background and Resident Profile
Wang Fuk Court was constructed in the early 1980s and had provided close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 residents, according to a population count.
Approximately 40 percent of its residents are thought to be over 65 years of age. A number have been occupants of the subsidised housing estate from its inception.
The city's second-deadliest fire on file killed 176 people in 1948 and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a multi-story storage facility. The worst was at a sporting venue in 1918, when in excess of 600 individuals perished.
