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2mo ago

Probes Underway After Mall Fire in Al-Kut Kills Up to 69 People

Iraqi authorities are investigating safety failures, pressing charges against the mall’s owner and builder following the deadly blaze.

Feuerwehrleute stehen vor einem ausgebrannten Supermarktgebäude in Al-Kut, Irak.
Bei einem Feuer in einem Einkaufszentrum im Irak sind mehr als 60 Menschen ums Leben gekommen. Wie das Innenministerium in Bagdad mitteilte, wurden in dem Einkaufszentrum in der ostirakischen Stadt Kut bis zum Morgen 61 Leichen geborgen.
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Overview

  • At least 61 bodies have been recovered from the five-story Corniche Hypermarket in Al-Kut, with police reports suggesting the toll may be as high as 69 and 11 people still unaccounted for.
  • Rescue teams have saved 45 individuals from the fire that broke out on July 16, six days after the mall’s opening.
  • Officials say many victims suffocated in restroom areas and that 14 charred remains remain unidentified.
  • Governor Mohammed al-Mijahi and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani declared three days of mourning and ordered comprehensive safety reviews.
  • Investigators are probing possible causes, including an alleged air-conditioner explosion and building-code violations by the owner and construction firm.