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Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an autonomous task force to investigate the cause of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 residents.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

Last Wednesday, most of the residential blocks at the housing complex—which had been undergoing significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. Authorities later discovered that safety scaffolding mesh used around the buildings fell short of flame retardant standards.

A minimum of 13 individuals have been detained on suspicion of suspected manslaughter, including the executives of a construction company.

"It is a terrible tragedy, it is a major blaze. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in various phases. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to make certain all these deficiencies are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee.

The Probe and Its Consequences

The blaze—advancing with speed both vertically and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by Friday morning, around 40 hours after it ignited, and took over 2,000 fire service personnel to contain.

The same day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the investigation could require three to four weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

A number of occupants have reported they did not hear a smoke detector when the incident erupted. The city's fire department discovered that detection devices in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.

The city's construction authority has halted for now works on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on charges related to incitement on Saturday. He was part of a collective calling for an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal amassed more than 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its contents were wiped.

Two other people, including a ex-local representative, were also taken in by officers, as reported by press accounts.

International Reaction

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

"Now is the time for the city's officials to transparently investigate the reasons of the devastating fire...instead of silencing those who raise appropriate concerns," Amnesty International said.

Historical Context and Demographics

The housing estate was built in 1983 and had offered 1,984 apartments for around 4,600 residents, according to a recent official survey.

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

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on file took 176 individuals in 1948 and was triggered by a detonation at street level at a five-storey warehouse. The most deadly was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 individuals lost their lives.