A total of 72 elderly persons were staying at the elders’ care home in the Galpatha area of Horana where a massive fire broke out at the premises this evening (03), Ada Dearana reporter said.
Police stated that a total of 11 individuals were reported missing following the blaze, while search operations have already led to the recovery of several charred bodies within the premises.
The fire was brought under control and completely extinguished following intensive efforts by firefighters, the police and area residents who rushed to the scene after receiving information about the incident.
The police and relief teams have successfully rescued 44 people without injuries, while 8 individuals who sustained burn injuries in the fire were admitted to the Horana District Hospital for treatment, Ada Derana reporter said.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and Horana Police are conducting further investigations into the matter.
