The city's Chief Executive Directs Investigation into Fatal Fire that Took 151
Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to probe the origins of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 people.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
On Wednesday last week, the majority of the tower blocks at the estate—which was subject to major refurbishment—were engulfed by fire. Investigators have since found that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings did not comply with fire safety regulations.
No fewer than 13 suspects have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, among them the executives of a building firm.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Reform is necessary. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. Hence we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these deficiencies are eliminated," he said.
Investigation and Aftermath
The fire—advancing with speed both upwards and from building to building—was finally put out by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it began, and took over 2,000 emergency responders to subdue.
On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to collect forensic material. Authorities say the investigation could require several weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
Several residents have stated they did not hear a smoke detector when the incident broke out. Hong Kong's fire service found that warning systems in each building were malfunctioning.
Hong Kong's buildings department has put on hold works on numerous private sites.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a 24-year-old man on allegations of incitement on Saturday. He was among a group petitioning for an independent inquiry into the tragedy. An digital signature drive collected over 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its contents were wiped.
Two other people, including a past council member, were also detained by police, as reported by local media reports.
Global Response
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both denounced the reported arrests.
"The moment has come for the local government to openly examine the causes of the devastating fire...instead of muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.
Background and Resident Profile
The residential complex was completed in the early 1980s and had provided 1,984 apartments for around 4,600 inhabitants, according to a recent official survey.
Nearly 40% of its inhabitants are estimated to be at least 65 years old. Several have lived in the subsidised housing estate since it was built.
The city's second-deadliest fire on record killed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a multi-story storage facility. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when more than 600 individuals died.
