The city's Leader Directs Investigation into Fatal Inferno that Took 151
Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to investigate the cause of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 residents.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
On Wednesday last week, most of the residential blocks at the estate—which was subject to significant upgrades—were engulfed by fire. Investigators have since found that protective netting installed on the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.
No fewer than 13 suspects have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, comprising the directors of a contractor.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. That is exactly why we must take decisive action to guarantee all these deficiencies are addressed," stated the leader.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The inferno—which spread quickly both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, around 40 hours after it started, and required more than 2,000 fire service personnel to contain.
The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the inquiry could last three to four weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
A number of occupants have stated they did not hear a fire alarm when the blaze started. Hong Kong's fire service found that alarms in each building were operating inadequately.
Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now renovation projects on 30 private projects.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Separately, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on suspicion of incitement on the weekend. He was involved with a group petitioning for an autonomous investigation into the tragedy. An online petition amassed over 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its page was taken down.
Two other people, among them a past council member, were also questioned by officers, per press accounts.
Global Response
The rights group and Human Rights Watch have both criticised the said apprehensions.
"Now is the time for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the tragic incident...instead of muzzling those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had provided close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 residents, according to a recent official survey.
Approximately 40 percent of its residents are thought to be at least 65 years of age. Several have resided in the government-supported development since it was built.
The city's second-deadliest fire on record claimed 176 individuals in 1948 and was triggered by a ground-floor explosion at a multi-story storage facility. The deadliest was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when over 600 individuals lost their lives.
