BENGALURU:
A devastating fire erupted in a firecracker warehouse in Attibele, Anekal taluk on Saturday, resulting in a tragic death toll of 15. The police have officially registered a case of criminal homicide, and the son of the warehouse owner has been apprehended.
Reports indicate that the majority of the deceased workers hailed from Sivakashi in Tamil Nadu. In connection with the fire incident, an FIR has been filed against the warehouse owner, Ramaswamy Reddy, and the landowner, Anil, under IPC sections 337, 338, and 304.
IPC Section 337 pertains to endangering the lives and safety of others, while IPC Section 338 deals with reckless endangerment. Section 304 addresses criminal homicide not amounting to murder, specifically in this case, involving explosive substances.
The tragic incident occurred when firecrackers were being unloaded from a lorry at 3:30 pm on Saturday. It has been revealed that the warehouse owner violated fire safety regulations. Bengaluru Central Zone IGP Ravikanthe Gowda has confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway.
Furthermore, action will be taken against those responsible for supplying the firecrackers. Proper documentation and adherence to standard operating procedures (SOP) are mandatory for the transportation of fireworks. The culprits will face consequences. Preliminary information suggests that the firecrackers were sourced from Dharmapuri in Tamil Nadu. A dedicated team of officials will be formed to investigate this tragedy, and complaints from the injured parties have been received.
A murder complaint has been filed, and an investigation will be conducted to determine which department is responsible for the lapse. The culprits, regardless of their identity, will face appropriate action, stated the authorities.
Naveen, the son of the warehouse owner, has been apprehended and is currently under custody. Additionally, Naveen sustained injuries during the incident and has been admitted to the hospital for treatment. The search is currently underway to locate the remaining individuals involved. Appropriate measures will be taken based on the reports provided by the officials, including the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and fire officials who were present at the scene of the firework accident.
As of now, nine individuals have been successfully identified, while the bodies of three more men remain unaccounted for. Among the injured, Venkatesh is in critical condition, requiring immediate attention. Fortunately, the remaining individuals are currently out of danger.
