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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 residents.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, most of the residential blocks at the housing complex—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—went up in flames. Authorities later discovered that protective netting used around the buildings failed to meet requirements for fire resistance.

No fewer than 13 suspects have been taken into custody over alleged culpable homicide, including the executives of a contractor.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in various phases. Hence we must take decisive action to guarantee all these gaps are eliminated," stated the leader.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The blaze—which spread quickly both vertically and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, some 40 hours after it began, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 emergency responders to subdue.

That very day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. Authorities say the investigation could last several weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

A number of occupants have stated they were not alerted by a smoke detector when the blaze started. Local firefighters found that warning systems in all eight blocks were malfunctioning.

Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now renovation projects on three dozen private developments.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Separately, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on charges related to incitement on Saturday. He was involved with a collective calling for an independent inquiry into the blaze. An internet-based appeal amassed in excess of 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its information was removed.

Two other people, including a ex-local representative, were also taken in by police, as reported by local media reports.

International Reaction

The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both criticised the alleged detentions.

"This is the occasion for the Hong Kong authorities to openly examine the origins of the devastating fire...instead of muzzling those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization.

Historical Context and Demographics

Wang Fuk Court was built in the early 1980s and had supplied close to 2,000 units for around 4,600 occupants, according to a 2021 government census.

Nearly 40% of its occupants are thought to be older than 65 years of age. A number have resided in the government-supported development from its inception.

The city's second-deadliest fire on file took 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a commercial building. The most deadly was at a local racetrack in 1918, when more than 600 individuals died.