🔗 Share this article Hong Kong Leader Directs Investigation into Fatal Blaze that Killed 151 Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to probe the origins of a devastating fire that took a minimum of 151 individuals. Video depicts rapid pace of fire spread in the city's tower block. A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the estate—which was subject to significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards. At least 13 individuals have been taken into custody over alleged culpable homicide, comprising the senior figures of a construction company. "This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Reform is necessary. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. Hence we must take decisive action to guarantee all these loopholes are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee. Investigation and Aftermath The inferno—which spread quickly both vertically and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it ignited, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 emergency responders to subdue. That very day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the investigation could take three to four weeks. This blaze is the deadliest the region has seen in more than 70 years. Systemic Failures Identified Multiple inhabitants have said they failed to hear a emergency siren when the blaze broke out. Hong Kong's fire service discovered that detection devices in each building were operating inadequately. The relevant regulatory body has put on hold works on three dozen private developments. Demands for Probe and Detentions Separately, authorities are said to have arrested a individual on allegations of sedition on Saturday. He was part of a collective petitioning for an separate review into the blaze. An internet-based appeal amassed over 10,000 supporters in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped. A pair of additional persons, among them a ex-local representative, were also questioned by authorities, according to local media reports. Chief executive John Lee said that the committee would be chaired by a judicial officer. International Reaction The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both denounced the reported arrests. "Now is the time for the local government to transparently investigate the causes of the devastating fire...rather than silencing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said. Historical Context and Demographics The residential complex was completed in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, based on a population count. Almost four in ten of its occupants are estimated to be older than 65 years old. A number have lived in the public housing complex from its inception. The city's second-most fatal incident on file killed 176 people in 1948 and was caused by a detonation at street level at a five-storey warehouse. The deadliest was at a local racetrack in 1918, when over 600 attendees died.