At least five Sierra Leonean migrants died in a fire incident in the Bouchrieh Dam region of Lebanon on March 11, 2023, the Consulate of Sierra Leone in Lebanon said in a statement on Sunday.
The tragic fire incident left two others in a critical condition. It was not clear what caused the fire. It is claimed that the incident took place following an altercation among some Sierra Leoneans living in Lebanon. It is alleged that one of them set the apartment where they live ablaze leading to the tragic death of the five Sierra Leonean nationals.
“The consulate is working closely with both the Lebanese police and the Sierra Leonean Government to obtain a thorough report once investigations conclude. Additionally, a representative has been sent to monitor the condition of the two injured women,” the Consulate said in the statement.
“The Consulate wishes to reaffirm that it is currently in engagement with the authorities in Lebanon to ensure that the welfare of Sierra Leoneans in the country is guaranteed at all times.”