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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to probe the origins of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 151 residents.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

Last Wednesday, most of the tower blocks at the estate—which was subject to extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Authorities later discovered that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.

At least 13 individuals have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, comprising the directors of a construction company.

"It is a terrible tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. Hence we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these gaps are eliminated," stated the leader.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The blaze—which spread quickly both upwards and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, some 40 hours after it started, and necessitated over 2,000 fire service personnel to contain.

On that day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the investigation could last several weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Several residents have reported they did not hear a emergency siren when the fire started. Hong Kong's fire service found that alarms in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.

Hong Kong's buildings department has temporarily suspended works on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a 24-year-old man on allegations of incitement on Saturday. He was involved with a gathering calling for an autonomous investigation into the tragedy. An digital signature drive collected more than 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its contents were wiped.

Two other people, including a former district councillor, were also taken in by police, according to news outlets.

International Reaction

The rights group and Another watchdog have both criticised the said apprehensions.

"Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to transparently investigate the reasons of the tragic incident...as opposed to muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," Amnesty International said.

Background and Resident Profile

The residential complex was completed in 1983 and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for some 4,600 inhabitants, according to a 2021 government census.

Approximately 40 percent of its inhabitants are believed to be at least 65 years of age. Several have lived in the government-supported development since it was built.

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on in history killed 176 lives in 1948 and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when over 600 individuals lost their lives.