The city's Chief Executive Directs Investigation into Tragic Inferno that Killed 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 individuals.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
This past Wednesday, the majority of the residential blocks at the estate—which was subject to extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that protective netting used around the buildings did not comply with requirements for fire resistance.
No fewer than 13 suspects have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, comprising the executives of a building firm.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. This is precisely the reason we must respond rigorously to make certain all these deficiencies are addressed," stated the leader.
Investigation and Aftermath
The inferno—which spread quickly both upwards and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, some 40 hours after it ignited, and took in excess of 2,000 emergency responders to bring under control.
On that day, police began entering the buildings to gather evidence. Officials state the investigation could last approximately a month.
Shortcomings Uncovered
A number of occupants have stated they were not alerted by a emergency siren when the fire broke out. The city's fire department found that warning systems in all eight blocks were malfunctioning.
The city's construction authority has halted for now renovation projects on numerous private sites.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
Additionally, officers took into custody a individual on suspicion of incitement on Saturday. He was involved with a group demanding an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal gathered over 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its contents were wiped.
Another two individuals, among them a past council member, were also detained by authorities, according to news outlets.
Global Response
The rights group and Another watchdog have both criticised the alleged detentions.
"The moment has come for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the causes of the catastrophic blaze...instead of muzzling those who pose valid inquiries," remarked the group.
Background and Resident Profile
Wang Fuk Court was built in the early 1980s and had offered 1,984 apartments for some 4,600 occupants, according to a population count.
Almost four in ten of its inhabitants are thought to be over 65 years of age. A number have lived in the subsidised housing estate from its inception.
The city's second-most fatal incident on file took 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The deadliest was at a local racetrack in the early 1900s, when over 600 attendees lost their lives.
