The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has stated that it is conducting an assessment to determine whether any human rights concerns arose in connection with the fire that broke out last night in an accommodation block housing expatriate workers in Alifu Dhaalu Dhigurah.

Five people who were living in the building passed away in the fire.

In a statement issued following the incident, HRCM expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic fire. The commission also stated that it is monitoring the condition of those injured and examining whether any actions related to the incident may have resulted in the violation of human rights.

Police said eight people were injured in the incident and were taken to the Dhigurah Health Centre for treatment.

Two individuals who sustained serious injuries and severe burns were later transferred to Malé for further medical treatment.

Police also said a special investigation team will travel from Malé to Dhigurah to investigate the incident.

Authorities said the fire was reported to police at around 2:00 a.m. last night.