The Northern Division experienced its first fire of 2025 on New Year’s Day when a four-bedroom house in Waiqele, Labasa, was completely consumed by flames in the early morning hours. The homeowners, Shalenee Devi and Nileshwar Prasad, were in New Zealand with family for the holidays when they received the alarming news from a relative.
“Our caretaker was away for the New Year holiday when the incident occurred around 3am,” Devi reported. She expressed her gratitude toward a neighbor who promptly contacted the National Fire Authority (NFA) for assistance.
Despite limited resources, fire officers worked diligently to control the fire. “With only one water tank and a damaged hose, they did their best,” Prasad acknowledged.
The fire resulted in significant losses, including the destruction of two cars and partial damage to two vans. The couple suspects arson, referencing previous unsettling incidents involving threats, stone-throwing, and an attempted break-in at their nearby shop.
Devi expressed a hopeful outlook, saying, “We are optimistic that the authorities will act swiftly to bring those responsible to justice.” The estimated damage to their property amounts to $250,000, but the family remains hopeful. “We have lodged a police complaint and trust the authorities will uncover the truth and prevent such tragedies from affecting others,” she added.
In response to the incident, NFA chief executive officer Puamau Sowane expressed sympathy to the affected family. He highlighted the challenges faced by firefighters due to the lack of fire hydrants and other water sources in the area. He noted that all the water in the tank was exhausted during the firefighting efforts and emphasized the need for residents outside urban boundaries to exercise extra caution.
Acting Divisional Police Commander North Superintendent Eroni Soqosoqo confirmed that an investigation is underway. “We are awaiting the NFA report to determine our next course of action. This is the first fire report in the North for 2025,” he stated.
In this difficult situation, the community’s response and efforts to support the affected family highlight the resilience and solidarity often found in times of crisis. It underscores the importance of community vigilance and cooperation, especially in preventing such incidents in the future.
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