Cambodia casino fire death toll climbs to 19

At least 73 others 'seriously injured' in blaze reportedly caused by electric short circuit, say officials

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – The death toll from a casino fire in Cambodia has climbed to 19, officials said on Friday.

Authorities in Poipet city in the western Banteay Meanchey province, along the border with Thailand, said at least 73 others were “seriously injured” in the fire that engulfed the 17-story Grand Diamond City hotel-casino.

There were more than 400 employees in the casino when the fire engulfed the building, the daily Khmer Times reported.

The fire started at around 11:30 p.m. Wednesday (1630GMT Wednesday).

The majority of those stuck inside the building was said to be Thai nationals.

A massive rescue and relief operation is still going on at the site.

The cause of the fire is suspected to be an electric short circuit as the building was heavily illuminated in view of Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“It is believed that some of the victims had jumped to their deaths while others broke their legs during the fire,” Khmer Times reported.

Kaynak: