The High Commission of India in the Maldives has confirmed that seven among the 10 victims of the tragic fire that broke out inside a house in Maafannu-ward of the congested capital Malé City around 12:30 am Thursday, were Indian nationals.

This was revealed by the Indian High Commission in a Twitter post.

As such, the Tweet reads that Maldivian authorities have confirmed that seven of the deceased were Indian nationals and that the identity of one person is still being confirmed.

The High Commission went on to reveal that they are in contact with the families.

On Thursday, High Commissioner Munu Mahawar along with mission officials, met the evacuated Indian nationals and assured them of all possible assistance.

The High Commission went on to express gratitude to the Maldivian authorities, NGOs and community members who have been providing necessary support to the evacuees.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih earlier met senior officials of relevant government agencies for discussions regarding the fire, and on measures to prevent them in future.

At the meeting held at the President’s Office on Thursday afternoon, President Solih inquired about the response of relevant government agencies following the fire.

The meeting also saw President Solih urging relevant stakeholders to conduct prompt investigations to determine the cause of the fire.

He also urged the authorities to ensure transparency in disclosing information to the public and instructed them to expedite the identification of the deceased as well as to assist those affected by the fire.

Relevant authorities were also instructed to enhance efforts to inspect the accommodation arrangements of foreign workers and compile a plan to relocate workshops and vehicle garages in residential areas.

Further, the president assured that his administration would take steps to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.