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Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an independent committee to investigate the cause of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 individuals.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

Last Wednesday, seven of eight tower blocks at the Wang Fuk Court—which was subject to major refurbishment—were engulfed by fire. Authorities later discovered that protective netting used around the buildings did not comply with flame retardant standards.

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

"This is indeed a tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. Hence we must take decisive action to ensure that all these gaps are eliminated," stated the leader.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—that propagated rapidly both vertically and across the separate towers—was finally put out by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it started, and took over 2,000 firefighters to bring under control.

The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could take three to four weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

A number of occupants have reported they failed to hear a smoke detector when the fire erupted. Local firefighters determined that detection devices in all eight blocks were malfunctioning.

The relevant regulatory body has halted for now works on numerous private sites.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, officers took into custody a young man on charges related to sedition on Saturday. He was part of a gathering petitioning for an separate review into the blaze. An internet-based appeal gathered more than 10,000 supporters in less than a day before its information was removed.

Two other people, among them a former district councillor, were also taken in by officers, according to news outlets.

International Reaction

Amnesty International and The monitoring body have both condemned the reported arrests.

"This is the occasion for the city's officials to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the tragic incident...as opposed to silencing those who ask legitimate questions," remarked the group.

Background and Resident Profile

The housing estate was built in 1983 and had provided close to 2,000 units for around 4,600 inhabitants, based on a population count.

Nearly 40% of its residents are thought to be at least 65 years old. A number have resided in the public housing complex since it was built.

The city's second-deadliest fire on record took 176 people in 1948 and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in the early 1900s, when in excess of 600 individuals died.