NORTH NEWS
House fire victim takes to the streets for help
ALab as a fire victim is hoping to collect enough money on the street to help him build a new home.
Rati Lal, 70, of Mani Road, Bulileka, was seen with his walking stick and a small bag begging for assistance in Labasa Town.
In 2002, Mr Lal lost his two-bedroom house in a fire while he was away for a family gathering in Savusavu. Again last month when he returned to Labasa after visiting his daughter in Nadi, his house was gone, also in a fire.
He now lives with a Police Officer in his neighborhood.
“I can’t be depending on other people for shelter,” he said.
“I don’t know how I can collect money and housing materials as I am unemployed, living alone and a diabetic patient.”
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that no arrest has been made as Police were still investigating. National Fire Authority chief executive officer Puamau Sowane confirmed the incident on July 18.
He said the situation involving the coronavirus pandemic was unprecedented and to lose everything in a fire during these trying times was brutal.
He is encouraging every member of the Fijian community to help prevent any fire incident as it adds to greater economic losses.