Authorities have launched three separate investigations into Sunday’s deadly fire at a polystyrene manufacturing plant in Dromolaxia, which claimed the life of a 63-year-old man.
Police and the Department of Labour Inspection have begun their inquiries, whilst the Fire Service and Electromechanical Services will commence their investigation once the building is deemed safe to enter.
The victim’s severely burned body was recovered from the ground floor at approximately 2:30 p.m. yesterday following a lengthy recovery operation.
The remains were retrieved via a secure corridor in the presence of an anthropologist, with DNA testing planned for formal identification.
Investigators determined that the victim, who was not a factory employee, had been called to perform electrical work on the first floor.
The factory owner and three workers were reportedly conducting maintenance work on the ground floor when the incident occurred.
Initial findings suggest the fire may have been sparked by tools being used during maintenance work.
According to Evangelitsa Tsoulofta, chief officer at the Department of Labour Inspection, the rapid spread of the fire was likely due to the presence of cardboard packaging materials used for the polystyrene products.
Larnaca’s Criminal Investigation Department has begun taking statements from workers present at the scene and has collected CCTV footage from nearby premises.
The factory owner, who sustained burns while attempting to rescue the victim, is currently being treated at Larnaca Hospital.
The facility has been completely destroyed in the blaze.
(Pictures by George Christoforou)
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