Post by : Bianca
Haleem
A tragic fire at an unauthorized nursing home in western Sri Lanka has resulted in the death of 12 residents, with eight others suffering injuries, as confirmed by police officials.
The blaze erupted late Wednesday in a nursing home situated in Anguruwatota town. Emergency responders managed to rescue 51 residents from the premises. Police spokesman Fredrick Wootler revealed that the facility was housing individuals with mental health issues.
In the aftermath of the incident, the home's director was arrested on allegations of negligence leading to the deaths. He has been presented before a court, which mandated his detention for one week while further investigations proceed.
Footage from the scene illustrated the significant damage inflicted by the fire, with furniture and equipment completely charred. Firefighters, police officers, and local residents teamed up to control the blaze and rescue those trapped.
The rescued individuals were given assistance by police and military personnel and transported by buses to a secure location.
Chathura Mihudum, Director of the National Secretariat for Elders, stated that the institution was functioning without proper registration. He disclosed that authorities had previously cautioned the management to adhere to legal frameworks and operational standards.
Mihudum noted that the facility was grossly overcrowded, housing 71 individuals in a space intended for approximately 15. Government officials had previously visited and advised the management to comply with regulations.
Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the precise cause of the blaze and whether additional legal consequences will ensue.
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