The city's Chief Executive Orders Investigation into Tragic Blaze that Took 151
The city's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to investigate the cause of a tragic inferno that took a minimum of 151 individuals.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
Last Wednesday, most of the apartment buildings at the Wang Fuk Court—that was in the midst of extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Authorities later discovered that construction site netting installed on the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.
A minimum of 13 people have been detained on suspicion of suspected manslaughter, including the directors of a building firm.
"This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Reform is necessary. Yes, we have identified failures in different stages. That is exactly why we must act seriously to make certain all these loopholes are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee.
Investigation and Aftermath
The fire—which spread quickly both vertically and between the blocks—was finally put out by Friday morning, approximately two days after it began, and took in excess of 2,000 firefighters to bring under control.
That very day, police began entering the buildings to collect forensic material. Officials state the investigation could require several weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
A number of occupants have said they did not hear a emergency siren when the incident started. Local firefighters discovered that detection devices in each building were not working effectively.
The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended works on 30 private projects.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
Additionally, officers took into custody a individual on allegations of sedition on Saturday. He was among a gathering petitioning for an separate review into the fire. An digital signature drive collected in excess of 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its page was taken down.
A pair of additional persons, comprising a ex-local representative, were also questioned by police, according to press accounts.
International Reaction
The human rights organization and Human Rights Watch have both denounced the alleged detentions.
"This is the occasion for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the catastrophic blaze...as opposed to suppressing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.
Background and Resident Profile
The residential complex was built in 1983 and had provided 1,984 apartments for around 4,600 occupants, per a recent official survey.
Almost four in ten of its residents are estimated to be over 65 years of age. Some have lived in the government-supported development since its construction.
The city's second-most fatal incident on in history killed 176 lives in 1948 and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 individuals died.
