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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that took a minimum of 151 residents.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

This past Wednesday, most of the residential blocks at the housing complex—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings fell short of requirements for fire resistance.

No fewer than 13 suspects have been detained on suspicion of potential negligent homicide, including the executives of a building firm.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. Hence we must take decisive action to make certain all these gaps are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The inferno—that propagated rapidly both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, some 40 hours after it ignited, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 firefighters to bring under control.

The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to gather evidence. The government indicates the inquiry could require several weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have said they were not alerted by a emergency siren when the incident erupted. Local firefighters determined that detection devices in each building were malfunctioning.

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

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, officers took into custody a young man on suspicion of sedition on Saturday. He was involved with a group calling for an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal gathered in excess of 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.

Two other people, among them a ex-local representative, were also taken in by authorities, according to press accounts.

Global Response

The rights group and Another watchdog have both condemned the reported arrests.

"This is the occasion for the Hong Kong authorities to transparently investigate the causes of the devastating fire...rather than silencing those who raise appropriate concerns," stated the organization.

Historical Context and Demographics

The residential complex was completed in the early 1980s and had offered 1,984 apartments for some 4,600 occupants, based on a population count.

Almost four in ten of its inhabitants are thought to be at least 65 years old. A number have lived in the public housing complex since its construction.

The city's second-worst blaze on record killed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when over 600 attendees lost their lives.