Colombo: A fire at a home for older people in Anguruwatota, located 55 kilometers from Colombo, has resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, according to police reports on Thursday. An additional eight residents have been hospitalized following the incident.

According to Emirates News Agency, the blaze has been extinguished, and the police have taken the director of the establishment into custody. The authorities have confirmed that a total of 51 individuals were rescued from the facility. The survivors are currently receiving care from military personnel and public officials in the vicinity.

Police Spokesperson Frederick Wootler stated that the investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, ensuring that the fire was put out and that the necessary support was provided to the affected individuals.