At least sixteen elderly residents lost their lives in a devastating fire that engulfed the ‘Owerda Damai’ nursing home in Manado, on Indonesia’s Sulawesi island, on Sunday night. In addition, three individuals suffered severe burn injuries and are currently receiving intensive medical care.
According to Jimu Rotinsulu, head of the Manado Fire and Rescue Service, authorities received reports of the blaze at 8:31 pm local time on 28 December. Firefighters rushed to the scene and began rescue operations immediately. However, the intensity of the flames and the rapid spread made it impossible to save several residents, many of whom were trapped inside their rooms.
Rotinsulu told AFP that most of the deceased were found within their rooms. The fire broke out in the evening while most residents were resting. Owing to advanced age and limited mobility, many were unable to evacuate quickly, contributing to the high death toll.
Footage broadcast by local television channel Metro TV shows the nursing home building completely ablaze, with residents being rescued by local volunteers who risked their own lives to save those trapped inside. The three injured victims are currently under close medical observation, with their condition described as critical.
Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, has long faced criticism over inadequate fire safety measures in buildings and industrial facilities. Earlier this month, a fire at a seven-storey office building in the capital, Jakarta, claimed the lives of at least 22 people. The Manado incident underscores persistent weaknesses in public safety and emergency preparedness.
The exact cause of the nursing home fire remains under investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that an electrical short circuit could have triggered the blaze. Government authorities have ordered a thorough inquiry to determine the circumstances and prevent future tragedies.
Key Details of the Incident:
| Location | Facility | Date & Time | Fatalities | Injured | Cause (Preliminary) | Rescue Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manado, Sulawesi, Indonesia | Owerda Damai Nursing Home | 28 Dec, 8:31 pm | 16 | 3 (critical) | Possible electrical short circuit | 12 residents rescued unharmed |
The tragedy has reignited nationwide concern over fire safety standards, particularly in facilities housing vulnerable populations, highlighting the urgent need for improved preventive measures and stricter enforcement of safety regulations.