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Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has directed the formation of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a devastating fire that took a minimum of 151 people.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

Last Wednesday, seven of eight residential blocks at the estate—which was subject to extensive renovations—went up in flames. A probe subsequently revealed that construction site netting used around the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.

At least 13 individuals have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, including the senior figures of a building firm.

"It is a terrible tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. Yes, we have identified failures in various phases. This is precisely the reason we must act seriously to ensure that all these loopholes are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The inferno—advancing with speed both vertically and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it started, and required more than 2,000 emergency responders to bring under control.

That very day, police began entering the buildings to collect forensic material. The government indicates the investigation could require approximately a month.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have stated they were not alerted by a fire alarm when the blaze broke out. The city's fire department discovered that warning systems in each building were not working effectively.

The city's construction authority has temporarily suspended construction activities on three dozen private developments.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

In a related development, police reportedly detained a 24-year-old man on charges related to incitement on the weekend. He was involved with a collective demanding an separate review into the fire. An internet-based appeal collected over 10,000 endorsements in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.

A pair of additional persons, among them a past council member, were also taken in by officers, according to press accounts.

International Reaction

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both condemned the said apprehensions.

"The moment has come for the Hong Kong authorities to thoroughly and publicly probe the origins of the devastating fire...rather than suppressing those who raise appropriate concerns," remarked the group.

Background and Resident Profile

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had provided nearly two thousand flats for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, based on a recent official survey.

Almost four in ten of its residents are believed to be over 65 years old. A number have lived in the subsidised housing estate from its inception.

The city's second-deadliest fire on record took 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was caused by a detonation at street level at a multi-story storage facility. The most deadly was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 people lost their lives.