🔗 Share this article The city's Leader Directs Investigation into Deadly Inferno that Killed 151 Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an independent committee to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 151 residents. Video depicts rapid pace of blaze propagation in Hong Kong residential tower. A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to extensive renovations—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that protective netting installed on the buildings did not comply with fire safety regulations. No fewer than 13 suspects have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, including the directors of a contractor. "This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. This is precisely the reason we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these gaps are addressed," stated the leader. The Probe and Its Consequences The inferno—which spread quickly both vertically and from building to building—was finally put out by the end of the week, some 40 hours after it ignited, and took more than 2,000 firefighters to bring under control. That very day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the inquiry could take several weeks. The fire is the deadliest the city has witnessed in exceeding 70 decades. Shortcomings Uncovered Several residents have reported they did not hear a smoke detector when the blaze broke out. Local firefighters determined that alarms in all eight blocks were operating inadequately. The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended renovation projects on three dozen private developments. Demands for Probe and Detentions In a related development, police reportedly detained a young man on suspicion of subversion on the weekend. He was among a group petitioning for an autonomous investigation into the blaze. An digital signature drive amassed over 10,000 supporters in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped. A pair of additional persons, including a former district councillor, were also detained by officers, per local media reports. The city's leader John Lee said that the inquiry would be led by a member of the judiciary. Global Response The rights group and Another watchdog have both criticised the alleged detentions. "Now is the time for the local government to openly examine the reasons of the tragic incident...as opposed to silencing those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization. Historical Context and Demographics Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 and had provided 1,984 apartments for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, according to a recent official survey. Almost four in ten of its occupants are estimated to be over 65 years old. Some have resided in the subsidised housing estate from its inception. The city's second-deadliest fire on in history killed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a commercial building. The worst was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 people lost their lives.