A Nigerian national injured in a recent hotel fire in Malviya Nagar, South Delhi, has passed away during treatment, raising the overall death toll from the tragic incident to 22, according to police information released on Sunday. The fire broke out at Flourish Stays B&B in the Hauz Rani area on Wednesday morning, initially claiming 21 lives, including that of a 16-year-old girl, along with several foreign nationals from countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Iraq, Congo, Mozambique, and Liberia.

The latest victim, identified as Okale, succumbed to severe injuries late Saturday night while receiving care at a Delhi hospital. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Anant Mittal confirmed that Okale had sustained extensive burns in the incident and was initially treated at Max Hospital before being transferred to the burn ward at Safdarjung Hospital as his condition worsened. Despite rigorous medical support, including ventilator assistance, he could not survive.

Police Investigation and Arrests Underway

In connection with the fire, the Delhi Police have arrested both the hotel owner and the cook, citing negligence as a potential factor in triggering the blaze. The investigation is ongoing, with other personnel associated with the establishment also being questioned. Initial findings suggest that the cook’s conduct might have contributed to the fire’s outbreak, prompting investigators to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The arrested hotel owner, Lavkesh Bajaj, faces charges including culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Investigators are closely examining numerous concerns, including safety violations, unauthorized expansion of hotel rooms, and lapses in fire safety protocols. Evidence gathered indicates that the hotel operated 25 rooms although it received permission for only six, as outlined in the FIR filed by Malviya Nagar Police.

Safety Violations and Emergency Response Issues

Authorities have reported significant deficiencies in ventilation and emergency preparedness at the hotel premises. It has been noted that the entrance to the basement was locked when emergency crews arrived, necessitating firefighters to cut through the door to conduct rescue operations. This has raised serious concerns regarding the establishment’s safety standards and readiness for emergencies.

Multiple police teams are currently engaged in efforts to locate Jay Mishra, a partner of the hotel owner, who has reportedly been evading law enforcement since the incident took place. The comprehensive investigation aims to clarify the sequence of events leading up to the fire and ensure accountability for the loss of life incurred in this tragic event. The police have stated that all necessary actions will be taken to address the lapses that contributed to such a devastating outcome.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share