76 dead in devastating fire at Turkish resort, 9 arrested
The fire broke out late at night when most guests were asleep, spreading rapidly through the facility.
KATHMANDU: A fire at a resort in Turkey has left 76 people dead and dozens injured, in one of the deadliest incidents of its kind in recent years.
The fire broke out late at night when most guests were asleep, spreading rapidly through the facility.
Local authorities are investigating the cause, with preliminary reports suggesting negligence as a potential factor.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as guests and staff attempted to escape the blaze.
Many were trapped inside due to blocked exits and a lack of proper emergency measures.
Firefighters battled the inferno for several hours before bringing it under control, but by then, the damage was catastrophic.
Turkish police have arrested nine individuals, including the resort’s owner and several staff members, on suspicion of failing to adhere to safety regulations.
Officials have also launched a full-scale inquiry to determine whether the resort violated fire safety codes.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and will ensure those responsible are held accountable,” said a government spokesperson during a press conference. Rescue operations are ongoing, with teams working to recover bodies and search for survivors.
The incident has sparked outrage among the public, with many questioning the safety standards at resorts across the country.
Authorities have promised stricter enforcement of safety regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.
The names of the victims have not yet been released, as families and friends wait anxiously for updates.
Counseling services have been made available for survivors and relatives of the deceased.
This disaster has brought renewed focus on fire safety practices in public establishments, with calls for urgent reforms to prevent further loss of life.