Palembang, KOTABARI.COM – A devastating fire engulfed nine houses along Temon Alley, Mangga Sub-district, 27 Ilir, around 01:45 AM local time on Tuesday. At least 34 households, including those of five members of the KPPS (General Election Committee), were affected by the blaze.
Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames around 03:45 AM, just before dawn, after deploying 10 firefighting units to the scene.
Kgs M Dani, the Head of RT 01 Lorong Mangga, stated that the fire originated from the residence of the late Alshad, which was occupied by three individuals. Dani mentioned that his own house was also partially affected by the fire.
“The fire originated from Mr. Alshad’s house. I’m not entirely sure about the details because I immediately focused on saving belongings and getting my wife out,” he said.
More than 34 voters’ homes were affected by the fire, raising concerns about the fate of the election invitations.
“At least 34 households were affected by the fire yesterday. We’re not sure if the election invitations were also burnt. I need to confirm the exact number. We will coordinate with the Sub-district Head, District Head, and KPPS members,” Dani explained.
Meanwhile, Kompol Azizir Ilham, the Chief of Ilir Barat II Police Sub-precinct, stated that the incident began when witness Zulkarnain (62) was resting at home and noticed flames entering the house.
“Zulkarnain, one of the victims, was resting when he noticed flames already spreading from one of the houses. The fire is suspected to have started from an electrical short circuit,” Azizir said.
The extent of the damage caused by the fire is yet to be estimated. As for the affected KPPS members, coordination with the local Sub-district Head and District Head will determine their next steps.
“We will coordinate with the 27 Ilir Sub-district Head, PPK (Sub-district Election Committee), District Head, and other relevant authorities regarding the future of the five KPPS members affected by the fire,” he concluded.