14 dead after massive fire at cracker shop in Karnataka; owner detained
PTC News Desk: Karnataka police detained the owner of a firecracker shop in Attibele, Anekal town, on Sunday after a major fire at the shop-cum-godown killed 14 people on Saturday, according to Director General of Police Alok Mohan.
The DGP expressed his condolences to the victims' families and stated that an extensive investigation is underway to find out the cause of the fire and bring those responsible to justice.
"The owner of the shop and his son have been taken into custody pending further investigation. A thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire and to bring those responsible to justice," the DGP added.
However, the DGP stated that there is currently no evidence to show that there were child labourers employed at the firecracker shop. He stated that a detailed post-mortem examination would shed further light on the horrific incident.
"Local authorities and law enforcement agencies are collaborating to ensure a meticulous investigation, and more information is expected to become available as the inquiry progresses," Mohan said in a statement.
The DGP also stated that the fire soon engulfed the premises, necessitating a difficult rescue effort by the fire department and emergency services.
Siddaramaiah, the Chief Minister of Karnataka, is expected to visit the gutted remains of a firecracker store.
According to authorities, the fire started while workers at the store were unloading firecrackers from a vehicle on Saturday at about 3:30 p.m.
According to the authorities, the situation is currently under control, with firemen successfully extinguishing the flames.
According to the police, an investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the fire.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka government approved a Rs 5 lakh compensation for each of the deceased's next-of-kin.
- ANI
