🔗 Share this article Hong Kong Chief Executive Directs Probe into Fatal Blaze that Took 151 Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 individuals. Images reveals speed of blaze propagation in Hong Kong residential tower. A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the housing complex—which was subject to major refurbishment—went up in flames. Authorities later discovered that protective netting installed on the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations. At least 13 people have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, among them the senior figures of a contractor. "This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in different stages. Hence we must act seriously to ensure that all these gaps are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee. Investigation and Aftermath The blaze—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was finally put out by the end of the week, approximately two days after it started, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 firefighters to contain. On that day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Authorities say the probe could last approximately a month. This blaze is the most fatal the city has experienced in exceeding 70 decades. Shortcomings Uncovered A number of occupants have reported they failed to hear a smoke detector when the incident started. Local firefighters found that detection devices in every tower were operating inadequately. The relevant regulatory body has halted for now construction activities on numerous private sites. Calls for Inquiry and Arrests In a related development, authorities are said to have arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of incitement on Saturday. He was involved with a collective calling for an separate review into the tragedy. An digital signature drive gathered more than 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its page was taken down. Two other people, comprising a ex-local representative, were also taken in by police, per press accounts. Chief executive John Lee said that the committee would be led by a judicial officer. International Reaction The rights group and The monitoring body have both condemned the reported arrests. "This is the occasion for the local government to transparently investigate the reasons of the devastating fire...instead of suppressing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group. Historical Context and Demographics The residential complex was completed in the early 1980s and had offered close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 residents, according to a recent official survey. Nearly 40% of its residents are thought to be older than 65 years old. Some have resided in the public housing complex since its construction. The city's second-deadliest fire on file took 176 people in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a detonation at street level at a multi-story storage facility. The worst was at a local racetrack in the early 1900s, when more than 600 people perished.