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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an separate inquiry panel to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 individuals.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, seven of eight tower blocks at the housing complex—which had been undergoing significant upgrades—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that protective netting used around the buildings fell short of requirements for fire resistance.

At least 13 people have been detained on suspicion of potential negligent homicide, comprising the senior figures of a construction company.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these gaps are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The fire—which spread quickly both vertically and from building to building—was finally put out by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it ignited, and required more than 2,000 firefighters to bring under control.

The same day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could last several weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Several residents have said they did not hear a emergency siren when the incident broke out. Local firefighters determined that warning systems in each building were malfunctioning.

Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now construction activities on 30 private projects.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Separately, police reportedly detained a young man on allegations of subversion on the weekend. He was part of a group demanding an independent inquiry into the blaze. An digital signature drive amassed in excess of 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its contents were wiped.

Two other people, including a former district councillor, were also taken in by police, as reported by press accounts.

International Reaction

The rights group and Another watchdog have both condemned the alleged detentions.

"The moment has come for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the tragic incident...as opposed to suppressing those who raise appropriate concerns," stated the organization.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in the early 1980s and had provided nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 residents, per a 2021 government census.

Almost four in ten of its inhabitants are believed to be at least 65 years of age. Some have resided in the subsidised housing estate from its inception.

Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on in history killed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a five-storey warehouse. The deadliest was at a local racetrack in 1918, when in excess of 600 individuals died.