13 killed in Hanoi karaoke bar fire

Thứ Tư, 02/11/2016, 10:50

At least 13 people have been killed in the fire at a karaoke bar in Hanoi on November 1st, according to Major General Doan Viet Manh, Director of the Fire and Rescue Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security.

Lieutenant General Bui Van Thanh, Deputy Minister of Public Security has instructed Hanoi Police Department to address consequences of the incident and to urgently investigate the case in accordance with law.

Leader of the Ministry of Public Security has also urged fire departments by localities to inspect karaoke bars and restaurants for fire safety protocols and equipment.

Fire fighters struggle with the fire.

Hospital 198, under the Ministry of Public Security, is treating two police officers who were injured while fighting the fire.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has ordered Hanoi authorities to oversee the search and rescue and the city police to investigate the incident.

The PM has also asked the capital to offer support to victims and their families. Local authorities are to inspect and suspend any karaoke bars or restaurants that violate fire safety regulations.

Rescue workers had been battling to save people from the massive fire that broke out in the karaoke bar. The fire spread to three neighboring buildings and incinerated a car and many motorbikes on the street.

The fire at the karaoke lounge, which rapidly spread to nearby houses on Tran Thai Tong Street, Cau Giay District, was detected at nearly 2:00 p.m. The fire broke out in an area which is home to 6 karaoke bars, many restaurants and fashion shops.

PSN/VnExpress