Kuwait building fire claims 40 lives

At least 41 people lost their lives in a massive fire at a building housing workers in southern Kuwait early on Wednesday, as reported by Gulf News.

Kuwait's Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al Sabah, who also oversees the interior and defense ministries, visited the site in Mangaf and held real estate owners accountable for the tragedy, attributing the fire to violations and greed.

“Unfortunately, the greed of real estate owners is what leads to these matters,” Al Sabah stated.

Major General Eid Rashed Hamad noted that the fire was reported to authorities at 6:00 am local time (0300 GMT).

“The building where the fire occurred was used to house workers, and there were a large number of workers present,” another senior police commander explained. “Dozens were rescued, but unfortunately, many deaths resulted from inhaling smoke.”

The senior police official emphasized the ongoing warnings against overcrowding in worker accommodations. However, details about the type of employment or the origins of the workers were not disclosed.

The fire has been contained, and authorities are investigating its cause, officials said.