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Authorities in Hong Kong have taken into custody thirteen individuals on suspected charges of involuntary manslaughter related to last week’s devastating fire, amid growing public outcry over the arrests of civilians demanding accountability.

Ongoing Rescue Operations as Fatalities Rises

Emergency services continued to search through the seven-building complex of the Wang Fuk Court estate in Tai Po on Monday, following the most fatal blaze in 75 years. The number of fatalities rose to 151 and is expected to rise higher as the operation continues. About 40 people are still missing.

Construction Work Connected with Cause of Blaze

The housing complex, home to almost 5,000 people, had been in the midst of extensive renovations that have been associated with the origin of the blaze. In the aftermath, anger has escalated over reported past safety violations by the construction company working at the site and poor oversight of standards, fuelled by disclosures that occupants had been voicing concerns over the renovations for a year.

Those Detained Include Corporate Executives

On Monday afternoon, authorities said anti-corruption authorities had arrested thirteen people over the disaster so far, including the directors and an engineering consultant of a contracting firm, and had “immediately begun comprehensive investigation along the lines of involuntary manslaughter”.

Safety Failures Revealed

A top administrator stated that 7 of 20 tested samples of the scaffolding net used around the buildings did not meet flame-resistance requirements. Preliminary checks had found materials were up to code, but the official said the cheaper, substandard material had been installed in areas difficult to access in order to avoid discovery, labeling it a “deplorable deed”.

“They just wanted to make money at the expense of people’s lives,” the official stated.

Civilians Arrested Amid Calls for Answers

As accusations of safety violations grow, alongside reports that official bodies had issued multiple apparently ignored cautions, residents have asked why no government figures have yet been held accountable. Conversely, two civilians were reportedly taken into custody by national security police.

One individual, identified as a Hong Kong student, was arrested over an online petition that made “four requests” for assured assistance for the affected families and responsibility for those at fault, including any negligent or culpable public servants.

Local media said the individual was detained for “inciting disaffection”. Police did not confirm the arrest, saying only that they “will act according to the situation and in accordance with the legal framework”.

Local media also reported the detention of a former district councillor.

Government Statement on Detentions

Asked about the detentions, the security chief said there had been “inaccurate comments online” that were aimed to undermine public security. “As a result, we must take appropriate measures, including police action,” the official told a media briefing. “Operational details cannot be revealed as they concern national security.”

Public Reaction and Comparisons Made

On Hong Kong social media, people condemned the arrests of civilians. “National security must be prioritised even if the dead are still buried in the structure,” said a comment.

Several users made parallels to mainland China. “There, such acts are termed ‘creating disturbances’,” said a user. “It’s usually punished with severe penalties. Social order overrides everything.”

A different user said: “Now that we are following mainland China’s methods, by dealing with the individual who raises the question, nobody will dare to ask, and thus Hong Kong’s governance will have no issues.”

Heightened Sensitivity and Volunteer Efforts

The arrests came after warnings by national security authorities that they would take action against anyone considered to be exploiting the tragedy to incite “hostile” sentiment.

Prior to the detentions, officials had already demonstrated heightened sensitivity to the community response. Since the quelling of earlier unrest, public assemblies have been strictly regulated. In the immediate aftermath, volunteer supporters quickly organized relief efforts, with many individuals employing cars and transit to bring in large quantities of garments, supplies and other necessities for the victims.

However, by nightfall, armed police were patrolling the vicinity, and government officials soon took over from the volunteer organisers.

The petition over which the individual was reportedly detained was launched late on Friday. Its “four points” mirrored the terminology of past campaigns but did not advocate systemic reform.

The student told media that he was only “putting forward very basic demands”.

“Should these suggestions are considered seditious or ‘transgressive’, then I feel I can’t predict the outcomes of any action any more, and I can only do what I sincerely think is correct,” he said.