Hong Kong Chief Executive Directs Investigation into Deadly Fire that Took 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an separate inquiry panel to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 individuals.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
Last Wednesday, the majority of the tower blocks at the estate—which had been undergoing extensive renovations—were engulfed by fire. Investigators have since found that safety scaffolding mesh installed on the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.
A minimum of 13 suspects have been arrested for alleged culpable homicide, including the directors of a building firm.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these loopholes are eliminated," he said.
Investigation and Aftermath
The blaze—advancing with speed both vertically and from building to building—was finally put out by the end of the week, approximately two days after it began, and required in excess of 2,000 emergency responders to contain.
The same day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could last three to four weeks.
Shortcomings Uncovered
A number of occupants have said they failed to hear a emergency siren when the fire broke out. Local firefighters discovered that alarms in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.
The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended renovation projects on three dozen private developments.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
Additionally, officers took into custody a 24-year-old man on suspicion of incitement on the weekend. He was among a gathering calling for an independent inquiry into the fire. An online petition collected in excess of 10,000 signatures in a very short time before its page was taken down.
Two other people, including a former district councillor, were also detained by officers, according to press accounts.
Global Response
The rights group and Another watchdog have both condemned the said apprehensions.
"The moment has come for the Hong Kong authorities to transparently investigate the causes of the catastrophic blaze...instead of silencing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said.
Background and Resident Profile
The residential complex was built in the early 1980s and had supplied close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 occupants, based on a population count.
Nearly 40% of its residents are thought to be over 65 years of age. Several have resided in the public housing complex since its construction.
Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on file took 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a local racetrack in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 people lost their lives.
