MP calls for inquiry Into Dhigurah fatal fire

Member of Parliament for North Galolhu constituency Mohamed Ibrahim has requested clarification on whether government agencies fulfilled their responsibilities in relation to a fire in ADh. Dhigurah last month that resulted in the deaths of five expatriates.

The fire occurred at around 2:00am on the 12th of last month in an accommodation block where approximately 30 expatriate workers were residing. Eight individuals were injured in the incident.

In a letter addressed to Speaker of the People’s Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Mohamed Ibrahim requested that the Government Oversight Committee examine whether relevant agencies met their obligations.

The member sought clarification on several matters, including whether the building complied with rental regulations and whether it had been authorised for residential use.

He also requested information on whether the deceased individuals held valid work permits and the identity of their registered employers.

The letter further questioned whether the premises were operated as a commercial activity and, if so, whether it had been registered as expatriate accommodation on the relevant ministry’s business portal.

Mohamed Ibrahim also asked whether the Ministry of Defence Maldives, which has oversight over expatriate housing, had verified compliance with standards, and what procedures are in place for monitoring such facilities.

Additional queries included whether the local council had confirmed the authorised use of the building and whether it had assessed occupancy levels.

According to the island council, the fire was caused by a gas leak during cooking. Some residents were reported to have been asleep at the time.

Information obtained by ‘Dhauru’ indicates that the accommodation block had a single entry and exit point, located near the kitchen area.