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Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to investigate the cause of a catastrophic blaze that took a minimum of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, seven of eight tower blocks at the housing complex—which had been undergoing extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting surrounding the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.

At least 13 people have been detained on suspicion of alleged culpable homicide, including the directors of a building firm.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in different stages. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to ensure that all these gaps are plucked," he said.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—advancing with speed both upwards and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it started, and necessitated over 2,000 emergency responders to contain.

The same day, authorities started accessing the buildings to collect forensic material. Officials state the inquiry could last approximately a month.

Shortcomings Uncovered

A number of occupants have reported they were not alerted by a emergency siren when the fire started. Hong Kong's fire service found that alarms in every tower were not working effectively.

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

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, police reportedly detained a individual on charges related to incitement on the weekend. He was among a gathering petitioning for an separate review into the blaze. An digital signature drive amassed over 10,000 endorsements in less than a day before its contents were wiped.

Another two individuals, including a ex-local representative, were also taken in by police, per news outlets.

International Reaction

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both condemned the alleged detentions.

"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," remarked the group.

Background and Resident Profile

The residential complex was constructed in the early 1980s and had supplied close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 occupants, based on a recent official survey.

Approximately 40 percent of its residents are believed to be at least 65 years of age. Several have lived in the government-supported development since its construction.

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on record took 176 people in 1948 and was the result of a detonation at street level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a local racetrack in 1918, when more than 600 attendees lost their lives.