The city's Leader Orders Investigation into Deadly Inferno that Took 151

Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to probe the origins of a catastrophic blaze that claimed the lives of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

On Wednesday last week, seven of eight tower blocks at the estate—which had been undergoing significant upgrades—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings fell short of requirements for fire resistance.

A minimum of 13 people have been detained on suspicion of potential negligent homicide, including the executives of a construction company.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, the fire was immense. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in multiple areas. Hence we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these gaps are plucked," stated the leader.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The fire—that propagated rapidly both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, some 40 hours after it began, and required over 2,000 emergency responders to subdue.

On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could require three to four weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have said they failed to hear a fire alarm when the fire started. Local firefighters determined that warning systems in every tower were not working effectively.

The city's construction authority has put on hold renovation projects on numerous private sites.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on suspicion of sedition on Saturday. He was involved with a collective petitioning for an separate review into the blaze. An internet-based appeal collected over 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its information was removed.

Another two individuals, comprising a past council member, were also taken in by police, per local media reports.

Global Response

Amnesty International and Another watchdog have both criticised the alleged detentions.

"The moment has come for the local government to openly examine the origins of the catastrophic blaze...instead of silencing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said.

Historical Context and Demographics

The residential complex was completed in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for some 4,600 occupants, per a recent official survey.

Almost four in ten of its inhabitants are believed to be over 65 years of age. Several have resided in the government-supported development since it was built.

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on file claimed 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 people lost their lives.