The city's Chief Executive Orders Probe into Deadly Fire that Took 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an separate inquiry panel to examine the reasons of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 individuals.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
This past Wednesday, most of the apartment buildings at the estate—that was in the midst of major refurbishment—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting installed on the buildings fell short of flame retardant standards.
A minimum of 13 individuals have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, among them the senior figures of a construction company.
"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. That is exactly why we must act seriously to guarantee all these gaps are eliminated," he said.
Investigation and Aftermath
The inferno—which spread quickly both upwards and across the separate towers—was only fully doused by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it began, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to contain.
On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to collect forensic material. Officials state the investigation could require three to four weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
Several residents have stated they failed to hear a emergency siren when the fire broke out. The city's fire department found that detection devices in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.
The relevant regulatory body has halted for now renovation projects on three dozen private developments.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on charges related to subversion on Saturday. He was involved with a collective calling for an independent inquiry into the fire. An online petition collected in excess of 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its contents were wiped.
Another two individuals, among them a former district councillor, were also detained by officers, as reported by press accounts.
International Reaction
The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both denounced the reported arrests.
"The moment has come for the local government to transparently investigate the reasons of the devastating fire...instead of muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was completed in 1983 and had offered nearly two thousand flats for some 4,600 occupants, per a recent official survey.
Nearly 40% of its occupants are believed to be older than 65 years of age. A number have lived in the government-supported development from its inception.
Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on file claimed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a local racetrack in 1918, when in excess of 600 individuals died.
