The city's Leader Orders Investigation into Tragic Blaze that Took 151

The city's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to investigate the cause of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 residents.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the Wang Fuk Court—which was subject to extensive renovations—were engulfed by fire. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting surrounding the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.

No fewer than 13 suspects have been detained on suspicion of potential negligent homicide, including the executives of a contractor.

"This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in different stages. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these loopholes are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—which spread quickly both vertically and across the separate towers—was finally put out by the end of the week, approximately two days after it started, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 firefighters to subdue.

On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to collect forensic material. The government indicates the inquiry could last several weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have stated they failed to hear a emergency siren when the blaze erupted. Local firefighters found that alarms in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.

The city's construction authority has halted for now construction activities on numerous private sites.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a individual on charges related to sedition on Saturday. He was part of a group demanding an independent inquiry into the blaze. An online petition collected over 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its information was removed.

Two other people, among them a former district councillor, were also taken in by authorities, per press accounts.

Global Response

Amnesty International and Another watchdog have both criticised the reported arrests.

"Now is the time for the local government to openly examine the origins of the tragic incident...rather than muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," stated the organization.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was completed in 1983 and had offered 1,984 apartments for approximately 4,600 occupants, per a population count.

Almost four in ten of its residents are believed to be older than 65 years of age. Some have lived in the government-supported development from its inception.

The city's second-most fatal incident on record killed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a local racetrack in 1918, when more than 600 people died.