At least 41 Workers Dead in Kuwait Building Fire, Arrest of Property Owner Ordered

 

A fire in Kuwait's southern Mangaf district killed at least 41 workers and injured dozens more, according to authorities. The blaze, which broke out early Wednesday morning, occurred in a building heavily populated by foreign laborers. The nationality of the casualties has not been disclosed.

Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad al-Yousuf al-Sabah, who also oversees the interior and defense ministries, ordered the arrest of the building's owner, attributing the tragedy to the "greed of real estate owners." Authorities have contained the fire and are investigating its cause.

A senior police commander stated that the fire occurred in a worker housing facility, noting that many deaths resulted from smoke inhalation.

The commander emphasized the ongoing issue of overcrowding in worker accommodations and reiterated warnings against such practices.

Legal issues following the fire may include violations of building codes and safety regulations, with potential civil lawsuits for wrongful death, personal injury, and property damage.

Building owners found non-compliant with fire safety standards face fines and liability for firefighting costs. Accountability will be determined through an investigation into potential negligence or violations contributing to the fire's severity.

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