KOTA BARU: It was a burning of a pile of paper that sparked the fire that consumed 27 houses in Kampung Gok Kapur here, says the Fire and Rescue Department.
Kelantan department director Farhan Sufyan Borhan said its Fire Investigation Forensic Unit, based on physical evidence and statements recorded, found that the fire on June 8 resulted after a gas lighter was used to burn a pile of paper in the kitchen of one of the houses.
"Flammable materials nearby caught fire before spreading to other parts of the structure, including nearby houses," he told Bernama here on Wednesday (July 24).
He said the investigation also confirmed that the cause of the fire was due to negligence.
"The investigation report will be handed over to the police or relevant authorities for further action if necessary.
"We would also like to advise the public to be cautious when using open flames and to avoid any burning inside or near residential areas that could pose a fire risk," he said.
A total of 110 villagers were left homeless and forced to seek shelter at a temporary evacuation centre at the nearby Mukim Banggol Mosque, though no casualties were reported. – Bernama
