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The city's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an independent committee to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 individuals.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

Last Wednesday, the majority of the residential blocks at the housing complex—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings fell short of flame retardant standards.

At least 13 individuals have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, comprising the senior figures of a building firm.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Reform is necessary. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. Hence we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these deficiencies are eliminated," he said.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The inferno—which spread quickly both vertically and across the separate towers—was only fully doused by Friday morning, approximately two days after it ignited, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to subdue.

On that day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Authorities say the probe could take several weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Multiple inhabitants have reported they did not hear a fire alarm when the fire started. Local firefighters determined that warning systems in each building were operating inadequately.

Hong Kong's buildings department has put on hold works on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, authorities are said to have arrested a 24-year-old man on charges related to sedition on the weekend. He was involved with a group calling for an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal amassed over 10,000 endorsements in less than a day before its page was taken down.

Two other people, including a ex-local representative, were also questioned by police, as reported by press accounts.

International Reaction

The human rights organization and The monitoring body 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 suppressing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had provided close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, according to a recent official survey.

Nearly 40% of its residents are estimated to be older than 65 years of age. Some have resided in the public housing complex from its inception.

Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on file killed 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The most deadly was at a sporting venue in 1918, when in excess of 600 individuals lost their lives.