🔗 Share this article Hong Kong Chief Executive Orders Investigation into Deadly Blaze that Took 151 The city's leader, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an autonomous task force to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 individuals. Footage shows speed of flames advancing in the city's high-rise. A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale This past Wednesday, most of the residential blocks at the estate—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting surrounding the buildings fell short of flame retardant standards. At least 13 individuals have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, including the senior figures of a contractor. "It is a terrible tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in different stages. That is exactly why we must act seriously to guarantee all these gaps are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee. Investigation and Aftermath The blaze—which spread quickly both vertically and from building to building—was only fully doused by the end of the week, some 40 hours after it started, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 firefighters to contain. That very day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to gather evidence. Officials state the inquiry could last several weeks. The fire is the most fatal the metropolis has seen in more than 70 decades. Shortcomings Uncovered A number of occupants have said they did not hear a smoke detector when the blaze erupted. The city's fire department determined that detection devices in every tower were not working effectively. The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended works on 30 private projects. Demands for Probe and Detentions Separately, authorities are said to have arrested a individual on charges related to subversion on the weekend. He was among a group demanding an separate review into the blaze. An internet-based appeal collected more than 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its page was taken down. A pair of additional persons, including a ex-local representative, were also taken in by authorities, as reported by press accounts. The city's leader John Lee said that the inquiry would be led by a member of the judiciary. Global Response Amnesty International and The monitoring body have both denounced the said apprehensions. "Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the causes of the tragic incident...as opposed to suppressing those who pose valid inquiries," remarked the group. Background and Resident Profile Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had offered nearly two thousand flats for around 4,600 inhabitants, based on a 2021 government census. Almost four in ten of its inhabitants are estimated to be over 65 years of age. Several have been occupants of the government-supported development since its construction. Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on in history killed 176 people in 1948 and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a commercial building. The worst was at a sporting venue in 1918, when in excess of 600 individuals died.