Seven family members are now without a home following a destructive fire that completely engulfed their two-storey, seven-bedroom house, along with their shop and Kava Bar in Malawai, Nadi, yesterday morning.
The property, owned by Abdul Munaf, had been a family-run business for over 35 years. His son, Nazil Nabeel, stated that the shop was closed the previous night, and all family members were asleep when the fire ignited. 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 were all located downstairs, while our family home with five bedrooms was upstairs,” Mr. Munaf explained.
“Unfortunately, we were unable to save anything except the clothes we were wearing. We are now homeless and uncertain about where to stay. My parents are currently at a friend’s house,” he added.
He expressed the emotional toll of the loss, saying, “We were heartbroken to witness everything we worked hard for turned to ashes.” The estimated damages exceed $100,000.
The National Fire Authority’s liaison officer confirmed that their team responded to the fire and is investigating its cause. Police have also announced that they are conducting an investigation.