Hong Kong Leader Directs Probe into Deadly Fire that Took 151
The city's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to examine the reasons of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 residents.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
On Wednesday last week, most of the residential blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to significant upgrades—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting installed on the buildings fell short of requirements for fire resistance.
No fewer than 13 suspects have been arrested for potential negligent homicide, among them the directors of a building firm.
"It is a terrible tragedy, it is a big fire. Reform is necessary. Yes, we have identified failures in various phases. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to make certain all these deficiencies are eliminated," he said.
Investigation and Aftermath
The fire—that propagated rapidly both upwards and across the separate towers—was finally put out by the end of the week, some 40 hours after it started, and required more than 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.
The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the inquiry could take approximately a month.
Systemic Failures Identified
Multiple inhabitants have reported they failed to hear a emergency siren when the blaze erupted. Local firefighters found that detection devices in every tower were not working effectively.
The relevant regulatory body has put on hold works on three dozen private developments.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
In a related development, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on allegations of incitement on Saturday. He was involved with a gathering demanding an independent inquiry into the blaze. An internet-based appeal collected more than 10,000 endorsements in under 24 hours before its page was taken down.
Another two individuals, including a ex-local representative, were also taken in by officers, per news outlets.
Global Response
Amnesty International and The monitoring body have both criticised the reported arrests.
"Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to transparently investigate the reasons of the catastrophic blaze...instead of suppressing those who pose valid inquiries," stated the organization.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 and had provided close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 occupants, based on a population count.
Approximately 40 percent of its residents are estimated to be older than 65 years old. Several have resided in the subsidised housing estate since its construction.
Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on file claimed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a ground-floor explosion at a multi-story storage facility. The most deadly was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 attendees perished.