Seven family members are currently without a home after a serious fire consumed their two-storey, seven-bedroom residence, along with their shop and Kava Bar in Malawai, Nadi, early yesterday morning.
The property, owned by Abdul Munaf, had served as a family business for over 35 years. Abdul’s son, Nazil Nabeel, noted that the shop had closed on Saturday night, and all family members were asleep when the fire ignited. The specific cause of the fire remains under investigation.
“The fire is believed to have started from the back. My two-bedroom apartment, shop, and Kava Bar are all located downstairs, while our family home with five bedrooms is upstairs,” Mr. Munaf explained.
“Unfortunately, we were unable to save anything except the clothes we were wearing. As of now, we are homeless and uncertain about where to go. My parents are staying with friends,” he added.
He described the experience of loss as incredibly painful. “We were in tears as we watched everything we worked so hard for go up in flames,” he stated.
The estimated damage is reported to be over $100,000. The National Fire Authority has confirmed that their officials responded to the fire and are currently investigating its cause. Police have also announced that an investigation is ongoing.