SINGAPORE – Unauthorised partitions were found, among other fire safety breaches, in the River Valley shophouse involved in the deadly blaze on April 8, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said on April 9.
In a Facebook update, SCDF said its preliminary findings showed that the fire likely started from an area used for storage on the second storey of the three-storey shophouse.
Those responsible for fire safety breaches may face a fine of up to $200,000, or a jail term of up to two years, or both.
Responding to media queries, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) said on April 9 that the second and third floors of the shophouse are approved for residential use.
A URA spokesperson said the site is a three-storey building with an attic.
The first floor is approved for use as a children’s enrichment centre, while the second and third storeys, as well as the attic are approved for residential use, said URA.
Investigations are ongoing, said both SCDF and URA.
SCDF officers at the River Valley shophouse for investigations on April 9.ST PHOTO: ONG WEE JIN
The fire at the shophouse on the morning of April 8 killed a 10-year-old girl, while 21 other people were injured. The address listed is of Tomato Cooking School, which runs cooking lessons and camps for children.
The Straits Times has contacted the school for comment.
In a Facebook post on April 9, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said its Assurance, Care and Engagement (Ace) Group – which safeguards the well-being of migrant workers here – will recognise the workers who helped in the fire.
Four of them – Mr Inderjit Singh, Mr Subramanian Saranraj, Mr Nagarajan Anbarasan and Mr Sivasami Vijayaraj – received their Friends of Ace coins on April 9, said the ministry.
“Their quick thinking and bravery made all the difference… Thank you for reminding us of the power of community in times of need,” MOM said.
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