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Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an separate inquiry panel to probe the origins of a tragic inferno that killed at least 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, the majority of the apartment buildings at the Wang Fuk Court—which had been undergoing extensive renovations—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that construction site netting surrounding the buildings failed to meet fire safety regulations.

No fewer than 13 suspects have been arrested for alleged culpable homicide, comprising the senior figures of a building firm.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. Yes, we have identified failures in different stages. Hence we must act seriously to make certain all these loopholes are addressed," he said.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—advancing with speed both vertically and between the blocks—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, around 40 hours after it ignited, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

That very day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. Authorities say the probe could last three to four weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have said they did not hear a emergency siren when the incident broke out. Hong Kong's fire service found that detection devices in each building were operating inadequately.

The relevant regulatory body has halted for now renovation projects on three dozen private developments.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Additionally, police reportedly detained a individual on charges related to incitement on the weekend. He was among a collective calling for an autonomous investigation into the fire. An digital signature drive collected in excess of 10,000 supporters in under 24 hours before its information was removed.

Two other people, including a ex-local representative, were also detained by officers, per local media reports.

International Reaction

The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both denounced the said apprehensions.

"The moment has come for the Hong Kong authorities to transparently investigate the causes of the tragic incident...rather than muzzling those who raise appropriate concerns," Amnesty International said.

Historical Context and Demographics

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in the early 1980s and had supplied nearly two thousand flats for around 4,600 inhabitants, per a population count.

Nearly 40% of its occupants are estimated to be at least 65 years of age. Some have been occupants of the subsidised housing estate since its construction.

The city's second-most fatal incident on file claimed 176 lives in 1948 and was triggered by a ground-floor explosion at a commercial building. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 attendees lost their lives.