Hong Kong Leader Orders Investigation into Tragic Blaze that Took 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 151 individuals.
A Fire of Historic Proportions
Last Wednesday, the majority of the residential blocks at the Wang Fuk Court—which was subject to major refurbishment—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that protective netting installed on the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.
A minimum of 13 people have been detained on suspicion of potential negligent homicide, among them the directors of a construction company.
"It is a terrible tragedy, it is a big fire. Reform is necessary. We have uncovered shortcomings in different stages. Hence we must take decisive action to ensure that all these loopholes are plucked," stated the leader.
Investigation and Aftermath
The blaze—advancing with speed both vertically and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it began, and required in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.
The same day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the investigation could last three to four weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
A number of occupants have stated they did not hear a fire alarm when the incident started. Hong Kong's fire service discovered that alarms in all eight blocks were malfunctioning.
The relevant regulatory body has put on hold works on 30 private projects.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Separately, officers took into custody a individual on charges related to incitement on the weekend. He was involved with a gathering petitioning for an separate review into the fire. An internet-based appeal collected over 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its contents were wiped.
A pair of additional persons, comprising a ex-local representative, were also questioned by authorities, per press accounts.
Global Response
Amnesty International and Another watchdog have both denounced the reported arrests.
"This is the occasion for the city's officials to transparently investigate the causes of the catastrophic blaze...rather than suppressing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said.
Background and Resident Profile
Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, based on a recent official survey.
Nearly 40% of its inhabitants are thought to be at least 65 years old. Several have resided in the subsidised housing estate from its inception.
The city's second-deadliest fire on in history killed 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was the result of a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 people perished.
