North's First Home Fire

The Northern Division re­corded its first fire of 2025 in the early hours of New Year's Day when a four-bedroom home in Waiqele, Labasa, was engulfed in flames.

Homeowners Shalenee Devi and Nileshwar Prasad, who were in New Zealand with their family for the holidays, received the devastat­ing news from a relative.

"Our caretaker was away for the New Year holiday when the inci­dent occurred around 3am," said Ms Devi.

"We are deeply grateful to our neighbour, who immediately con­tacted the National Fire Authority (NFA)."

Despite limited resources, fire of­ficers worked valiantly to contain the blaze.

"With only one water tank and a damaged hose, they did their best," Mr Prasad acknowledged.

The fire caused extensive damage, destroying two cars and partially damaging two vans.

The couple suspect arson, cit­ing previous incidents of threats, stone-throwing, and an attempted break-in at their shop near the Waiqele Airport.

"These events make us hopeful that the authorities will act swiftly to bring those responsible to jus­tice," Ms Devi said.

The estimated damage to the prop­erty is $250,000, but the family re­mains optimistic.

"We have lodged a police com­plaint and trust the authorities will uncover the truth and prevent such tragedies from affecting others," she added.

NFA response

NFA's chief executive officer, Pua­mau Sowane, expressed sympathy for the family.

"The area lacks fire hydrants and water sources, making it challeng­ing for officers to combat the fire," he said.

"The available water in the tank was fully utilised."

He reiterated the need for resi­dents outside town boundaries to exercise extra caution due to the distance from fire stations.

Police response

Acting Divisional Police Com­mander North Superintendent Ero­ni Soqosoqo confirmed an ongoing investigation.

"We are awaiting the NFA report to determine our next course of ac­tion," he said.

"This is the first fire report in the North for 2025."

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