Punjab Police have made significant progress in the investigation of a devastating fire that erupted at a hotel in Gulberg, Lahore, with the arrest of two key suspects. Authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend three additional individuals named in the case, as operations continue to bring all responsible parties to justice.
Arrests and Ongoing Manhunt
According to a spokesperson for the Lahore Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations, the arrested suspects have been identified as Kamil and Bilal. Meanwhile, police teams are actively conducting raids at multiple locations across the city to detain the three remaining suspects: Fazail Ahmed, Nadeem Mirza, and Atif, who are currently at large. The swift action underscores the police's commitment to addressing this tragic incident promptly.
FIR Details and Legal Charges
An FIR was officially registered at the Gulberg Police Station, invoking several stringent sections of the Pakistan Penal Code and the Civil Defence laws. The charges include:
- Section 322 (qatl bis-sabab)
- Section 427 (mischief causing damage)
- Sections 285 and 286 (negligent conduct with fire or combustible material)
- Section 337
- Section 9 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1951
The FIR explicitly states that the fire resulted in extensive damage to valuable property and critical hotel infrastructure. It attributes the cause to negligence on the part of the management, alleging a failure to adhere to fire safety warnings and mandatory precautionary measures, which significantly contributed to the severity of the incident.
Investigation and Forensic Analysis
Technical investigations into the exact cause of the fire are currently ongoing. Forensic examinations are being meticulously carried out to establish responsibility and reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the blaze. These efforts aim to provide a clear and accountable framework for legal proceedings.
Official Statements and Future Measures
DIG Operations Faisal Kamran emphasized that strict legal action is being pursued against those found responsible for endangering public lives and property. He declared, “There will be zero tolerance for criminal negligence. Anyone who compromises public safety will be dealt with under the law.” He further assured that all individuals accountable for the incident would be brought to justice without delay.
Police officials have reiterated their commitment to intensifying enforcement against violations of fire safety and civil defence regulations throughout Lahore. This proactive approach is designed to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring enhanced public safety and compliance with essential safety standards.
