🔗 Share this article Hong Kong Leader Orders Probe into Tragic Inferno that Took 151 The city's leader, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an separate inquiry panel to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 individuals. Footage shows speed of blaze propagation in Hong Kong tower block. A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale Last Wednesday, most of the apartment buildings at the Wang Fuk Court—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting surrounding the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards. No fewer than 13 individuals have been taken into custody over alleged culpable homicide, comprising the senior figures of a construction company. "This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in multiple areas. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to make certain all these gaps are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee. Investigation and Aftermath The inferno—which spread quickly both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, some 40 hours after it ignited, and necessitated more than 2,000 emergency responders to subdue. The same day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the inquiry could last approximately a month. The inferno is the worst the region has seen in exceeding 70 decades. Shortcomings Uncovered A number of occupants have stated they failed to hear a smoke detector when the incident erupted. The city's fire department determined that warning systems in each building were operating inadequately. Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now renovation projects on 30 private projects. Demands for Probe and Detentions In a related development, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on charges related to sedition on the weekend. He was involved with a group demanding an separate review into the blaze. An internet-based appeal gathered more than 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its page was taken down. Two other people, among them a past council member, were also taken in by police, per news outlets. Chief executive John Lee said that the committee would be chaired by a member of the judiciary. Global Response The rights group and Human Rights Watch have both condemned the reported arrests. "This is the occasion for the local government to transparently investigate the origins of the devastating fire...rather than silencing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said. Historical Context and Demographics The housing estate was built in 1983 and had provided nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, per a recent official survey. Approximately 40 percent of its inhabitants are thought to be at least 65 years old. Some have lived in the government-supported development since it was built. Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on file claimed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a multi-story storage facility. The most deadly was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 people lost their lives.