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Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 151 people.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

This past Wednesday, seven of eight apartment buildings at the housing complex—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that protective netting surrounding the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.

At least 13 people have been detained on suspicion of suspected manslaughter, among them the directors of a construction company.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Reform is necessary. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to ensure that all these gaps are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The inferno—advancing with speed both upwards and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, some 40 hours after it started, and took in excess of 2,000 emergency responders to subdue.

The same day, police began entering the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the investigation could take several weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Multiple inhabitants have stated they failed to hear a emergency siren when the fire started. Hong Kong's fire service found that warning systems in each building were malfunctioning.

The city's construction authority has put on hold renovation projects on three dozen private developments.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, officers took into custody a young man on allegations of incitement on Saturday. He was involved with a gathering calling for an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal amassed over 10,000 endorsements in less than a day before its information was removed.

Another two individuals, comprising a ex-local representative, were also taken in by authorities, according to press accounts.

International Reaction

The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both denounced the said apprehensions.

"Now is the time for the local government to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the devastating fire...rather than silencing those who pose valid inquiries," remarked the group.

Historical Context and Demographics

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had provided close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, based on a recent official survey.

Nearly 40% of its residents are believed to be at least 65 years of age. Several have been occupants of the subsidised housing estate since it was built.

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on in history claimed 176 individuals in 1948 and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a commercial building. The deadliest was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 people perished.