The city's Chief Executive Directs Investigation into Fatal Fire that Killed 151
Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an independent committee to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that took a minimum of 151 individuals.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
Last Wednesday, most of the tower blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to major refurbishment—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that protective netting installed on the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.
A minimum of 13 suspects have been detained on suspicion of alleged culpable homicide, including the senior figures of a building firm.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. That is exactly why we must take decisive action to make certain all these deficiencies are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The inferno—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, around 40 hours after it started, and necessitated over 2,000 emergency responders to subdue.
On that day, authorities started accessing the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the investigation could last several weeks.
Shortcomings Uncovered
Several residents have stated they were not alerted by a fire alarm when the blaze erupted. Local firefighters discovered that alarms in all eight blocks were not working effectively.
The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended works on 30 private projects.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Additionally, police reportedly detained a young man on suspicion of sedition on the weekend. He was part of a group calling for an separate review into the tragedy. An online petition amassed more than 10,000 endorsements in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.
Another two individuals, comprising a ex-local representative, were also detained by officers, as reported by news outlets.
Global Response
Amnesty International and The monitoring body have both criticised the alleged detentions.
"This is the occasion for the city's officials to transparently investigate the origins of the tragic incident...as opposed to suppressing those who pose valid inquiries," Amnesty International said.
Background and Resident Profile
The residential complex was constructed in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, based on a 2021 government census.
Nearly 40% of its inhabitants are believed to be over 65 years old. A number have been occupants of the government-supported development from its inception.
Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on file claimed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was the result of a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The deadliest was at a local racetrack in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 people perished.