The city's Chief Executive Directs Probe into Deadly Fire that Claimed Lives of 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to probe the origins of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 151 people.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
On Wednesday last week, seven of eight tower blocks at the estate—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that safety scaffolding mesh installed on the buildings did not comply with fire safety regulations.
A minimum of 13 individuals have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, including the executives of a contractor.
"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Reform is necessary. We have uncovered shortcomings in different stages. Hence we must act seriously to guarantee all these deficiencies are eliminated," he said.
Investigation and Aftermath
The inferno—which spread quickly both vertically and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, some 40 hours after it started, and took over 2,000 firefighters to bring under control.
On that day, police began entering the buildings to gather evidence. The government indicates the investigation could take three to four weeks.
Shortcomings Uncovered
Multiple inhabitants have stated they failed to hear a fire alarm when the blaze erupted. Hong Kong's fire service determined that detection devices in each building were not working effectively.
The relevant regulatory body has halted for now construction activities on numerous private sites.
Calls for Inquiry and Arrests
Separately, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on allegations of sedition on the weekend. He was involved with a gathering demanding an separate review into the blaze. An digital signature drive amassed in excess of 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its page was taken down.
Two other people, including a ex-local representative, were also questioned by police, according to press accounts.
International Reaction
Amnesty International and Another watchdog have both criticised the alleged detentions.
"Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to transparently investigate the origins of the devastating fire...instead of silencing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was built in the early 1980s and had provided close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 occupants, according to a recent official survey.
Approximately 40 percent of its residents are thought to be over 65 years of age. A number have lived in the public housing complex since its construction.
Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on file claimed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at a local racetrack in 1918, when over 600 people died.
