By Nasratu Kargbo
A total of 151 deaths have so far been recorded from the Wellington fire explosion that occurred on the 5th November 2021.
According to a situation report released by the Ministry of Health and Sanitation on 30th November 2021, 84 of the victims died on arrival at the hospital and 67 died whilst receiving treatment. This has increased the death toll to 151.
The report noted that there are five patients who are in critical condition. The report further stated that 2 of them are at the Connaught hospital and 1 each at Emergency, Choithram and 34-Military hospitals.
The report also stated that a total number of 35 patients are currently admitted at various hospitals, with 16 at the Connaught , 6 at Emergency , and 9 at the 34-Military whilst 4 are at the Chiothram hospital. 56 victims though discharged, continue to receive treatment at Connaught, Emergency and Rokupa hospitals as outpatients.
The fire incident which occurred between the hours of 9:00 and 10:00 PM was as result of a truck with granite stones ramming into a petrol tanker , close to a gas station. There was a petrol leakage from the tanker, and people around the area started scooping fuel which led to a traffic holdup in the area. The tanker later exploded and led to fireballs that swept through the area, consuming those scooping the fuel and people in vrhicles stuck in the traffic.
On the 8th November this year the government held a mass burial ceremony at Gbolima outside Waterloo for many of the victims who were burnt beyond recognition.
Copyright © Politico Online 01/12/21
