Five Killed in Fire at Foreign Workers’ Accommodation Block in Dhigurah

Five foreign workers have died after a fire broke out at an accommodation block in Alifu Dhaalu Dhigurah late last night, police have confirmed.

According to police, eight people sustained injuries in the incident and were initially taken to the island’s Health Centre for treatment. Five of the injured later died from their injuries. Sources said all five victims were Bangladeshi nationals.

Two other individuals suffered serious burns and injuries and have been transferred to the capital, Malé, for further medical treatment.

Police said the fire was reported at around 2:00 p.m. Emergency responders, assisted by local residents, attended the scene and later extinguished the blaze.

Initial reports indicate that around 30 people were living in the accommodation block, which houses foreign workers. The fire is believed to have broken out while many of the residents were asleep.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A police media official said a special investigation team has been dispatched to Dhigurah to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The team includes police investigators as well as a medical doctor.

Authorities have not yet released further details about the victims or the possible cause of the blaze.