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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 individuals.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the Wang Fuk Court—that was in the midst of major refurbishment—went up in flames. Authorities later discovered that protective netting installed on the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.

No fewer than 13 individuals have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, among them the directors of a contractor.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a major blaze. Changes are required. We have uncovered shortcomings in various phases. Hence we must respond rigorously to make certain all these gaps are plucked," he said.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—which spread quickly both vertically and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, some 40 hours after it ignited, and required in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to contain.

The same day, officers commenced entry into the buildings to secure proof. Officials state the probe could last several weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

A number of occupants have reported they failed to hear a fire alarm when the incident erupted. The city's fire department discovered that detection devices in every tower were malfunctioning.

The city's construction authority has halted for now construction activities on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Separately, police reportedly detained a individual on charges related to subversion on Saturday. He was involved with a gathering petitioning for an autonomous investigation into the blaze. An digital signature drive amassed more than 10,000 signatures in less than a day before its contents were wiped.

A pair of additional persons, among them a ex-local representative, were also taken in by authorities, according to press accounts.

International Reaction

The rights group and Human Rights Watch have both criticised the said apprehensions.

"Now is the time for the local government to openly examine the reasons of the catastrophic blaze...as opposed to silencing those who pose valid inquiries," Amnesty International said.

Historical Context and Demographics

The housing estate was constructed in 1983 and had supplied close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 residents, per a recent official survey.

Approximately 40 percent of its inhabitants are believed to be over 65 years of age. Several have lived in the government-supported development from its inception.

The city's second-worst blaze on file claimed 176 people in the mid-20th century and was triggered by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The most deadly was at a sporting venue in the early 1900s, when over 600 individuals lost their lives.