Dhaka [Bangladesh]: Police on Sunday said that they arrested two owners of an office high-rise tower that caught a massive blaze earlier this week, that claimed the lives of 26 people.
SMHI Faruque, the landowner of FR Tower situated in Banani area, was arrested from Basundhara area at around 1:45 am (local time). Another owner, Tasvir Ul Islam – who is district leader of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was arrested from his residence at around 10:45 pm (local time) on Saturday, Dhaka Tribune reported.
Police filed charges against the two accused of criminal negligence.
Later, the duo appeared before a Dhaka court where they were sent on a seven-day remand. The court also rejected the bail pleas filed by the owners.
At least 26 people died and several others sustained injuries after a fire broke out in the 22-storey FR Tower on March 28.
About 300 fire-fighters were deployed to confine the fire. Moreover, hundreds of people were rescued from the building.
The fire, which broke out on March 28 afternoon, was brought under control by fire-fighters in the evening.
Meanwhile, an eight-member probe committee has been formed to look into the tragic incident. It comprises representatives from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, the fire service, Dhaka deputy commissioner’s office, Dhaka North City Corporation, the police, and is led by a senior secretary from the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief.
The Air Force, Bangladesh Navy, police and Fire Service Department were all present at the scene to help in rescue and containing efforts.
[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]