Colombo : Twelve people died and eight others were injured in a fire at an unlicensed elderly care home in western Sri Lanka.
Police spokesperson Frederick Wootler said the fire broke out late Wednesday at the facility in Anguruwatota. Rescue teams evacuated 51 residents, while police and military personnel assisted survivors and transported them to safe locations.
Authorities arrested the home’s manager on suspicion of negligence, and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire.
Officials said the facility was not registered as an elderly care home and had previously received warnings from authorities. The home was housing 71 residents despite having capacity for only 15 beds.
