Algiers – A tragic fire broke out early Thursday morning in the municipality of Mohammadia, in the Algerian capital, at a children’s shelter (orphanage). The fire resulted in a large number of casualties and injuries, according to initial reports from the Civil Protection services. Firefighting and search operations are ongoing.
Details of the fire and rescue operations
اندلع الحريق في حدود الساعة الثالثة و32 دقيقة صباحاً، حيث استنفرت مصالح الحماية المدنية إمكانيات بشرية ومادية ضخمة للسيطرة على النيران. وقد شملت عمليات التدخل تسخير 6 شاحنات إطفاء، و6 سيارات إسعاف، وفرقة التدخل في الأماكن الوعرة (GRIMP). كما أُضيف إليها شاحنة السلم الميكانيكي ودعم مباشر من الوحدة الوطنية للتدريب والتدخل.
Despite the difficulties faced by the rescue teams, the teams succeeded in evacuating five people with special needs and transporting them to a safe place. While careful inspections are still underway within the corridors of the institution to ensure that there are no stranded persons or additional victims.
Casualty and injury toll
According to the latest figures released by the authorities, the death toll has risen to 11, while the number of injured has reached 19. Ten of the injured suffered burns of varying severity, and two are experiencing shortness of breath and difficulty breathing due to smoke inhalation. In addition, seven people suffered severe psychological trauma as a result of the incident.
The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, and local authorities are closely monitoring the incident. A pall of grief has descended upon the area. Investigation teams are continuing their efforts to determine the exact cause of the devastating fire. Meanwhile, civil defense crews are securing the site and conducting a thorough search of the building to ensure its safety.
