Hong Kong Chief Executive Directs Investigation into Deadly Fire that Took 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to probe the origins of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 individuals.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
This past Wednesday, the majority of the residential blocks at the estate—that was in the midst of extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that protective netting surrounding the buildings fell short of fire safety regulations.
At least 13 individuals have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, among them the executives of a contractor.
"It is a terrible tragedy, the fire was immense. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in various phases. Hence we must take decisive action to make certain all these gaps are eliminated," stated the leader.
Investigation and Aftermath
The inferno—that propagated rapidly both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it ignited, and necessitated over 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.
On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the inquiry could require approximately a month.
Systemic Failures Identified
Several residents have reported they did not hear a emergency siren when the fire erupted. Local firefighters discovered that alarms in every tower were not working effectively.
Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now works on 30 private projects.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Additionally, police reportedly detained a young man on charges related to incitement on the weekend. He was involved with a group petitioning for an separate review into the fire. An digital signature drive amassed over 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its page was taken down.
Two other people, including a past council member, were also questioned by police, per news outlets.
International Reaction
Amnesty International and The monitoring body have both condemned the alleged detentions.
"Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to thoroughly and publicly probe the reasons of the devastating fire...rather than muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, per a population count.
Nearly 40% of its occupants are thought to be at least 65 years of age. A number have been occupants of the subsidised housing estate from its inception.
The city's second-worst blaze on in history claimed 176 individuals in 1948 and was the result of a detonation at street level at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when over 600 attendees died.
