The city's Leader Directs Probe into Fatal Inferno that Took 151
Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an separate inquiry panel to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 residents.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
On Wednesday last week, the majority of the residential blocks at the Wang Fuk Court—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that safety scaffolding mesh surrounding the buildings fell short of fire safety regulations.
No fewer than 13 suspects have been detained on suspicion of potential negligent homicide, including the senior figures of a contractor.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. This is precisely the reason we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these loopholes are plucked," he said.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The blaze—advancing with speed both vertically and across the separate towers—was only fully doused by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it started, and necessitated over 2,000 emergency responders to contain.
That very day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the inquiry could take several weeks.
Shortcomings Uncovered
Multiple inhabitants have reported they failed to hear a emergency siren when the fire erupted. Local firefighters found that detection devices in every tower were operating inadequately.
The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended renovation projects on numerous private sites.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Additionally, police reportedly detained a young man on charges related to sedition on the weekend. He was among a collective petitioning for an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal gathered over 10,000 supporters in under 24 hours before its page was taken down.
Two other people, among them a past council member, were also questioned by police, according to news outlets.
Global Response
The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both denounced the alleged detentions.
"The moment has come for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the origins of the devastating fire...instead of muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," stated the organization.
Historical Context and Demographics
Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 and had supplied close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 residents, according to a 2021 government census.
Almost four in ten of its residents are estimated to be at least 65 years old. Some have lived in the government-supported development since it was built.
Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on record killed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was the result of a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The most deadly was at a sporting venue in 1918, when more than 600 people lost their lives.
