The city's Leader Orders Probe into Deadly Fire that Killed 151
Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 people.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
On Wednesday last week, seven of eight tower blocks at the housing complex—that was in the midst of extensive renovations—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting used around the buildings did not comply with requirements for fire resistance.
A minimum of 13 suspects have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, among them the directors of a contractor.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in multiple areas. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to guarantee all these gaps are eliminated," stated the leader.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The blaze—which spread quickly both vertically and across the separate towers—was finally put out by Friday morning, some 40 hours after it began, and took more than 2,000 emergency responders to bring under control.
That very day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to collect forensic material. Officials state the investigation could last several weeks.
Shortcomings Uncovered
A number of occupants have stated they failed to hear a fire alarm when the incident erupted. Hong Kong's fire service found that alarms in each building were operating inadequately.
The relevant regulatory body has halted for now construction activities on three dozen private developments.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Separately, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on allegations of incitement on the weekend. He was part of a collective calling for an independent inquiry into the tragedy. An internet-based appeal amassed over 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.
Two other people, comprising a ex-local representative, were also questioned by officers, as reported by local media reports.
International Reaction
The rights group and Human Rights Watch have both criticised the reported arrests.
"This is the occasion for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the causes of the tragic incident...as opposed to suppressing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.
Background and Resident Profile
The residential complex was constructed in the early 1980s and had provided 1,984 apartments for around 4,600 residents, per a recent official survey.
Nearly 40% of its residents are thought to be older than 65 years old. Some have lived in the government-supported development since it was built.
The city's second-worst blaze on file took 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 individuals died.
