Jhalokathi, Jan 08 (V7N) – A businessman’s residence was completely destroyed in a mysterious fire in Kathalia upazila of Jhalokathi early Wednesday, causing losses estimated at more than fifteen lakh taka and leaving one woman injured.

The incident occurred around 5:00 am in Latabunia village under Shauljalia Union. The house belongs to Delwar Hossain Howlader, owner of Howlader Traders in the Kathalia upazila town.

According to Delwar Hossain, he currently lives in a rented house in the upazila town with his wife and children due to business reasons, while his elderly parents, Abdul Hakim and Rahima Begum, reside at the village home. In the early hours of Wednesday, family members noticed flames coming from the semi-pucca house and raised an alarm. Local residents rushed to the spot and tried to control the fire, but it spread rapidly.

Before the fire service could arrive, the two-storey semi-pucca house was completely gutted. During the incident, Rahima Begum, (55), sustained injuries and was later given treatment locally. Her husband Abdul Hakim was rescued safely by neighbors.

Delwar Hossain said he was unable to understand how such a large house could be reduced to ashes within just half an hour. He added that all household belongings were destroyed, including cash, gold ornaments, land deeds, bank cheque books, national identity cards of family members, vehicle documents, stored rice, and other valuables.

Fire Service officials said the fire may have originated from an electrical short circuit, though the exact cause is yet to be confirmed.

Kathalia Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Naser Raihan said police were sent to the scene immediately after receiving the information. He added that legal action would be taken following an investigation if a written complaint is filed.

Local residents have expressed concern over the incident and called for a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire.

END/AIJ/SMA/