Five expatriate workers have died and three others sustained severe burn injuries after a fire broke out late last night at a foreign worker accommodation block in Dhigurah.
According to the Maldives Police Service, the incident was reported at around 2:00 a.m., prompting an emergency response on the island. Authorities confirmed that several individuals were inside the building when the fire began.
Police said that two of the victims who suffered serious burn injuries have since been transported to Malé for specialized medical treatment. Meanwhile, a team of investigators from the capital, including a medical doctor, is expected to travel to Dhigurah to assist local authorities in determining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Preliminary information suggests that the blaze may have been triggered by a gas leak, although officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause. Investigations remain ongoing.
Residents on the island reported that the fire began while two individuals were cooking late at night inside the accommodation block. At the time the fire broke out, several other occupants were believed to be asleep in the building.
Authorities are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses as part of the investigation into the fatal incident.
