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Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 residents.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

Last Wednesday, most of the apartment buildings at the estate—which had been undergoing significant upgrades—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting installed on the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.

No fewer than 13 individuals have been taken into custody over suspected manslaughter, comprising the executives of a building firm.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, the fire was immense. Reform is necessary. We have uncovered shortcomings in different stages. Hence we must act seriously to make certain all these deficiencies are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The inferno—advancing with speed both upwards and across the separate towers—was finally put out by Friday morning, approximately two days after it ignited, and required over 2,000 firefighters to contain.

That very day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the inquiry could last three to four weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Multiple inhabitants have said they did not hear a emergency siren when the incident erupted. Local firefighters determined that warning systems in every tower were malfunctioning.

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

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Additionally, police reportedly detained a young man on suspicion of subversion on the weekend. He was among a gathering calling for an autonomous investigation into the blaze. An online petition gathered more than 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its contents were wiped.

Another two individuals, including a past council member, were also detained by police, according to news outlets.

International Reaction

The rights group and The monitoring body have both denounced the said apprehensions.

"The moment has come for the Hong Kong authorities to transparently investigate the causes of the devastating fire...instead of muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," Amnesty International said.

Historical Context and Demographics

The residential complex was constructed in the early 1980s and had offered 1,984 apartments for approximately 4,600 occupants, according to a 2021 government census.

Nearly 40% of its occupants are estimated to be at least 65 years of age. A number have been occupants of the government-supported development since its construction.

Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on record killed 176 individuals in the mid-20th century and was caused by a detonation at street level at a multi-story storage facility. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when more than 600 attendees died.