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Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to examine the reasons of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 individuals.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

Last Wednesday, most of the tower blocks at the estate—that was in the midst of extensive renovations—were engulfed by fire. Investigators have since found that protective netting used around the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.

No fewer than 13 suspects have been detained on suspicion of suspected manslaughter, comprising the directors of a building firm.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a big fire. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in different stages. That is exactly why we must act seriously to ensure that all these gaps are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The fire—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it started, and necessitated over 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

On that day, authorities started accessing the buildings to collect forensic material. The government indicates the inquiry could take three to four weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have reported they failed to hear a emergency siren when the fire started. Local firefighters determined that alarms in all eight blocks were not working effectively.

Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now works on three dozen private developments.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a individual on allegations of sedition on Saturday. He was part of a collective calling for an independent inquiry into the blaze. An online petition collected in excess of 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its information was removed.

Another two individuals, including a ex-local representative, were also questioned by officers, according to news outlets.

International Reaction

The human rights organization and The monitoring body have both condemned the alleged detentions.

"Now is the time for the city's officials to thoroughly and publicly probe the origins of the catastrophic blaze...as opposed to suppressing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for some 4,600 inhabitants, per a 2021 government census.

Approximately 40 percent of its occupants are believed to be over 65 years old. Several have been occupants of the government-supported development from its inception.

Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on in history claimed 176 individuals in 1948 and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a multi-story storage facility. The deadliest was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 attendees perished.