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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an separate inquiry panel to examine the reasons of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 residents.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

This past Wednesday, seven of eight apartment buildings at the housing complex—which was subject to extensive renovations—went up in flames. Authorities later discovered that safety scaffolding mesh installed on the buildings fell short of fire safety regulations.

No fewer than 13 suspects have been taken into custody over alleged culpable homicide, comprising the directors of a construction company.

"Yes, it is a tragedy, the fire was immense. Reform is necessary. Failures have been detected in multiple areas. That is exactly why we must respond rigorously to guarantee all these gaps are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—that propagated rapidly both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it ignited, and took over 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

On that day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could last several weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

A number of occupants have said they failed to hear a smoke detector when the incident broke out. Local firefighters discovered that detection devices in every tower were not working effectively.

The city's construction authority has halted for now construction activities on three dozen private developments.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on allegations of subversion on Saturday. He was involved with a gathering demanding an independent inquiry into the blaze. An online petition gathered more than 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.

Another two individuals, including a past council member, were also taken in by officers, according to local media reports.

International Reaction

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

"Now is the time for the Hong Kong authorities to thoroughly and publicly probe the causes of the catastrophic blaze...instead of suppressing those who ask legitimate questions," Amnesty International said.

Background and Resident Profile

The residential complex was built in the early 1980s and had offered nearly two thousand flats for around 4,600 inhabitants, based on a population count.

Nearly 40% of its occupants are estimated to be older than 65 years old. A number have resided in the public housing complex since it was built.

The city's second-worst blaze on in history killed 176 individuals in 1948 and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when over 600 people perished.