The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has launched an investigation into the fire that killed five people in an accommodation block of foreign workers in Alif Dhaal Dhigurah.

The incident occurred at 2:00 am on Friday (March 13). Some islanders said a gas leak caused the fire.

Adhadhu has obtained a video of the fire, which shows gas cylinders exploding in the accommodation block.

“The commission is closely monitoring the situation of the victims and whether there has been any violation or restriction of human rights in the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the HRCM said.

A total of eight people sustained various injuries in the incident and were taken to the Dhigurah Health Centre. However, five of them died.

Police said two people sustained serious injuries and burns in the incident and were taken to Male' for further treatment.

A special police investigation team will be active in Dhigurah to determine the cause of the incident. The team includes a medical doctor.