A Nigerian national who was injured in a fire at the Flourish Stays bed and breakfast facility in Malviya Nagar's Hauz Rani, South Delhi, India, has succumbed to his injuries, raising the death toll to 22, police reported on Sunday.
Fire Incident and Casualties
The fire broke out at the facility, and the Nigerian victim, a middle-aged man, had been staying there for several days. He was initially taken to a nearby hospital and later transferred to Safdarjung Hospital, where he died during treatment on Saturday due to burn injuries. Authorities have informed the Nigerian Embassy.
With this death, the number of foreign nationals killed in the incident has risen to 13.
Investigation and Arrests
Delhi police have intensified their search for the hotel's accountant, Jay Mishra, and manager, Rakesh, who was present when the fire started. Three employees were on site: chef Keshav Negi, manager Rakesh, and a helper who was sleeping on an upper floor.
According to investigators, manager Rakesh was at the reception when the fire began in the ground floor kitchen. Chef Keshav Negi noticed sparks in an air fryer, which led to a heat blast. Instead of alerting others, Negi fled the hotel without informing anyone. Police stated that Negi could have assisted in rescue efforts or alerted the fire brigade.
Negi was arrested based on alleged culpability and evidence. On Sunday, he was taken to the hotel to help reconstruct the sequence of events. Police questioned him about the fire's origin and his actions afterward.
Political Involvement
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami spoke with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta regarding Negi's arrest, as his family claims he is innocent and falsely implicated. Dhami posted on X that Gupta assured no injustice would be done and the investigation would be based on facts and evidence.
Dhami also spoke with Negi's daughter, Kanishka Negi, offering assistance. He stated, "Our government stands shoulder to shoulder with all migrant Uttarakhandi brothers and sisters." Negi resides in East Delhi's Dilshad Garden with his wife and two children and had worked at the hotel for two years.
