Afcons: Can confirm whether human remains found are that of missing worker after DNA testing

Afcons Infrastructure, on Monday, stated that human remains found following the fire at the company’s accommodation block in K. Gulhifalhu can only be confirmed as that of the worker that went missing in the fire after DNA testing.

In a statement, Afcons said that they have been in constant contact with the missing worker’s family and extending their support.

They also emphasized that the cause of the fire was still being investigated.

Afcons said that 457 workers staying in the accommodation block escaped the fire – who were ensured immediate relief assistance including the provision of clothes, mobile phones with sim cards, suitcases and pocket expenses. They were also moved to accommodation facilities – and are being provided counseling from time to time.

As per the company, 78 workers were taken to hospital following the fire – of which 32 were admitted for treatment. Twenty-four of them sustained minor injuries while four of them underwent surgery. Remaining workers taken to the hospital were discharged after receiving necessary medical treatment.

In their statement – Afcons reiterated that the safety and security of their workers were the company’s top priority.

The fire was reported to Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) at 12:31 am on Friday morning. According to MNDF, firefighters were immediately dispatched to the scene. They managed to put out the fire at 01:52 am.

The accommodation block fully burned down in the fire.

Sun learned that two workers were reported missing in the fire, which was confirmed after a headcount. One of the workers has since been found, while the other, a truck driver, remains missing. The human remains were discovered during a search operation on Sunday, as reported by the police.

There are over thousands of Afcon in the Maldives working on Thilamale’ bridge project. 800 workers are based at Gulhifalhu while the remaining 200 workers are based at Male’ Bridge Site. 

The fire triggered a demonstration by Afcons’ workers at Gulhifalhu, to voice out their concerns. Afcons said they were in discussions with the workers, and are addressing their concerns.