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Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a catastrophic blaze that claimed the lives of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

Last Wednesday, most of the apartment buildings at the estate—that was in the midst of extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that protective netting installed on the buildings did not comply with fire safety regulations.

At least 13 individuals have been arrested for potential negligent homicide, including the senior figures of a contractor.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. That is exactly why we must act seriously to ensure that all these gaps are addressed," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The blaze—advancing with speed both vertically and across the separate towers—was only fully doused by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it started, and required over 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

The same day, authorities started accessing the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the inquiry could take three to four weeks.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Several residents have reported they did not hear a smoke detector when the incident erupted. Local firefighters determined that alarms in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.

The relevant regulatory body has temporarily suspended works on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

In a related development, officers took into custody a 24-year-old man on charges related to incitement on the weekend. He was involved with a collective calling for an separate review into the fire. An internet-based appeal gathered more than 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its information was removed.

Two other people, among them a ex-local representative, were also questioned by officers, as reported by press accounts.

International Reaction

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

"The moment has come for the local government to openly examine the causes of the devastating fire...rather than muzzling those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization.

Historical Context and Demographics

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in the early 1980s and had supplied close to 2,000 units for around 4,600 inhabitants, based on a recent official survey.

Approximately 40 percent of its occupants are believed to be over 65 years old. A number have resided in the public housing complex from its inception.

The city's second-deadliest fire on file killed 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a multi-story storage facility. The most deadly was at a sporting venue in 1918, when over 600 people perished.