Hong Kong’s Chief Executive announced the formation of an independent committee to review and overhaul the city’s building and construction system, aiming to avert future catastrophes after the fatal fire in Tai Po.

During a Tuesday news conference, John Lee informed reporters that urgent reforms are necessary following the late November blaze in Tai Po district, which claimed the lives of at least 159 individuals in multiple high-rise residential buildings.

“We are committed to overcoming the hurdles posed by vested interests and will pursue accountability without exception. It is imperative that we uncover the truth, deliver justice, allow the deceased to rest peacefully, and offer solace to those who are grieving,” Lee stated.

The Hong Kong leader also reported that police have arrested 13 individuals on suspicion of manslaughter, while approximately a dozen others were apprehended by the Independent Commission Against Corruption for offenses related to the tragedy.

The Hong Kong Police Department confirmed that searches of all seven fire-damaged structures have concluded, and 140 of the 159 victims have been identified.

The Hong Kong Fire Services Department indicated it received reports of a fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, a district located in the northern New Territories, at approximately 2:50 p.m. on November 26.

By 6:22 p.m., the fire had been elevated to a No. 5 alarm, which is the highest severity rating in Hong Kong.

Images from the site depicted parts of the towers consumed by flames, with dense, dark smoke billowing from numerous floors.

Chan Kwong-tak, an 83-year-old local retiree, noted that despite the buildings being equipped with fire alarms, they reportedly failed to activate when the fire erupted.

“Had someone been asleep at that time, they wouldn’t have stood a chance,” he commented.

Lee informed reporters that the government had “identified failures at various stages,” emphasizing the need for officials to act decisively to rectify deficiencies and hold accountable those responsible.

“We will tackle the identified bottlenecks. Furthermore, we intend to reform the entire building renovation system to prevent future recurrences,” he affirmed.

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Development, Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, announced that the Buildings Department plans to review safety regulations for scaffolding and protective nets in the wake of the deadly Wang Fuk Court fire.

Hon-ho observed that the fire’s origin is believed to stem from industry non-compliance, rather than the inherent nature of bamboo scaffolding, despite bamboo structures being less fire-resistant compared to metal alternatives.