A family of seven has become homeless after a fire ravaged their two-storey, seven-bedroom residence, along with their shop and Kava Bar, in Malawai, Nadi, yesterday morning.
The property, owned by Abdul Munaf, had served as a family business for over 35 years. His son, Nazil Nabeel, shared that the business was closed on Saturday night, and all family members were asleep when the fire broke out. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
“The fire is believed to have started from the back. My two-bedroom apartment, the shop, and Kava Bar are all located on the ground floor, while our family home, which has five bedrooms, is on the top floor,” Mr. Munaf explained.
He expressed their devastating loss, stating, “There is nothing we could save except the clothes we were wearing. Right now, we are homeless and we don’t know where to stay. My parents are at a friend’s place.”
The emotional toll has been significant, as he added, “We were in tears witnessing everything we worked hard for go up in flames.” The estimated damage is over $100,000.
An officer from the National Fire Authority confirmed that their team responded to the fire and is currently investigating its cause. The police also reported that an investigation is underway.