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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, seven of eight tower blocks at the estate—which was subject to significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. Authorities later discovered that protective netting used around the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.

No fewer than 13 people have been arrested for potential negligent homicide, comprising the directors of a contractor.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a big fire. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. This is precisely the reason we must take decisive action to ensure that all these gaps are addressed," stated the leader.

Investigation and Aftermath

The blaze—which spread quickly both upwards and between the blocks—was finally put out by the end of the week, approximately two days after it ignited, and took more than 2,000 emergency responders to bring under control.

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

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have reported they were not alerted by a fire alarm when the fire erupted. Local firefighters determined that detection devices in every tower were operating inadequately.

Hong Kong's buildings department has put on hold renovation projects on three dozen private developments.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

In a related development, authorities are said to have arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of incitement on Saturday. He was part of a gathering calling for an separate review into the tragedy. An online petition collected in excess of 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its information was removed.

A pair of additional persons, including a former district councillor, were also questioned by officers, as reported by local media reports.

Global Response

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

"Now is the time for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the reasons of the catastrophic blaze...instead of silencing those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had offered 1,984 apartments for approximately 4,600 residents, per a recent official survey.

Nearly 40% of its occupants are thought to be over 65 years of age. Some have lived in the government-supported development since it was built.

Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on record killed 176 individuals in 1948 and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a multi-story storage facility. The most deadly was at a local racetrack in 1918, when over 600 attendees died.