The city's Chief Executive Directs Investigation into Fatal Fire that Killed 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to examine the reasons of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 individuals.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
Last Wednesday, seven of eight tower blocks at the estate—which had been undergoing major refurbishment—went up in flames. Authorities later discovered that construction site netting surrounding the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.
A minimum of 13 suspects have been detained on suspicion of alleged culpable homicide, among them the directors of a construction company.
"This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in various phases. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to make certain all these loopholes are addressed," stated the leader.
Investigation and Aftermath
The fire—advancing with speed both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, approximately two days after it started, and required over 2,000 fire service personnel to subdue.
The same day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could last approximately a month.
Systemic Failures Identified
A number of occupants have stated they did not hear a smoke detector when the blaze broke out. Hong Kong's fire service determined that detection devices in all eight blocks were malfunctioning.
Hong Kong's buildings department has temporarily suspended construction activities on numerous private sites.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
In a related development, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on allegations of incitement on Saturday. He was part of a collective demanding an autonomous investigation into the fire. An digital signature drive amassed in excess of 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its contents were wiped.
Two other people, comprising a past council member, were also questioned by officers, per press accounts.
Global Response
The rights group and The monitoring body have both condemned the reported arrests.
"Now is the time for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the catastrophic blaze...rather than silencing those who pose valid inquiries," Amnesty International said.
Background and Resident Profile
The housing estate was constructed in the early 1980s and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, according to a population count.
Nearly 40% of its occupants are thought to be over 65 years of age. Several have been occupants of the government-supported development from its inception.
Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on file killed 176 individuals in 1948 and was the result of a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in 1918, when in excess of 600 people lost their lives.
