🔗 Share this article Hong Kong Chief Executive Orders Probe into Tragic Inferno that Took 151 Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to investigate the cause of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 residents. Video shows velocity of fire spread in Hong Kong residential tower. A Fire of Historic Proportions This past Wednesday, the majority of the apartment buildings at the housing complex—that was in the midst of major refurbishment—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting installed on the buildings fell short of requirements for fire resistance. At least 13 people have been taken into custody over suspected manslaughter, comprising the directors of a building firm. "It is a terrible tragedy, it is a major blaze. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in different stages. Hence we must take decisive action to make certain all these deficiencies are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee. Investigation and Aftermath The inferno—which spread quickly both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, approximately two days after it started, and necessitated more than 2,000 emergency responders to contain. On that day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to collect forensic material. The government indicates the inquiry could require several weeks. The fire is the most fatal the region has experienced in exceeding 70 decades. Systemic Failures Identified Multiple inhabitants have said they were not alerted by a emergency siren when the blaze broke out. Hong Kong's fire service discovered that detection devices in all eight blocks were not working effectively. Hong Kong's buildings department has temporarily suspended renovation projects on 30 private projects. Demands for Probe and Detentions Separately, officers took into custody a individual on allegations of subversion on the weekend. He was involved with a gathering demanding an separate review into the fire. An internet-based appeal collected more than 10,000 endorsements in a very short time before its page was taken down. Another two individuals, including a former district councillor, were also detained by authorities, according to news outlets. Chief executive John Lee announced that the committee would be headed by a member of the judiciary. Global Response Amnesty International and The monitoring body have both condemned the alleged detentions. "The moment has come for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the reasons of the tragic incident...rather than suppressing those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization. Background and Resident Profile The residential complex was built in the early 1980s and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 residents, according to a population count. Nearly 40% of its occupants are estimated to be over 65 years old. Several have resided in the public housing complex since it was built. The city's second-worst blaze on in history killed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a ground-floor explosion at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in 1918, when in excess of 600 people lost their lives.