Three Kenyans among five dead in fire incident in UAE

Three Kenyans are among five persons who lost their lives during a fire incident that occurred in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Their deaths were confirmed by both Kenyan and UAE authorities.

The Principal Secretary in the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, condoled with the families of the deceased Kenyans.

“I regret to inform you that 3 Kenyans are among 5 casualties that died following a deadly fire that occurred in Sharjah, UAE on Sunday. My deepest condolences to the families of the deceased diaspora. We stand with you to offer support during this difficult time,” she said on Tuesday.

Njogu, however, did not give any further details.

Sharjah Police said a criminal laboratory team is working to identify the cause of the fire, which broke out in an apartment on the top floor, with specialised teams carrying out inspections of the site.

The fire also left at least 19 persons injured.

Fire engulfed a 52-story residential tower in Sharjah on Sunday.

According to Gulf News, the five men who died as a result of the fire are all of African descent, three of whom are Kenyan.

The five died as they tried to escape.

UAE authorities also confirmed that 148 people were safely evacuated from the building by emergency response teams.

The fire is believed to have started on the 42nd floor, which remains sealed off.