Delhi Hotel Fire Death Toll Rises to 22 as Injured Nigerian National Succumbs to Burn Injuries

Victim Undergoing Treatment at Safdarjung Hospital Dies Days After Deadly Malviya Nagar Hotel Blaze

New Delhi: The death toll in the devastating hotel fire that engulfed a guesthouse in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar area has risen to 22, after a Nigerian national who suffered critical burn injuries during the incident died while undergoing treatment at a hospital, police officials confirmed on Sunday.

The tragic development comes days after a massive fire swept through Flourish Stays B&B in the Hauz Rani locality, making it one of the deadliest fire accidents reported in the national capital in recent years.

Nigerian National Dies During Treatment

According to Delhi Police, the deceased has been identified as Okale, a Nigerian citizen who was among those severely injured in the blaze that occurred on Wednesday morning.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South), Anant Mittal, said the victim had sustained extensive burn injuries and was initially admitted to Max Hospital for emergency treatment.

As his condition worsened, he was shifted to the specialized burn unit at Safdarjung Hospital, where doctors continued intensive medical care. Despite being placed on ventilator support and receiving continuous treatment, he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday night.

Police said the body has been sent for post-mortem examination as part of the ongoing investigation.

One of Delhi's Deadliest Hotel Fire Tragedies

The fire at Flourish Stays B&B claimed the lives of 21 people at the scene, including a 16-year-old girl and several foreign nationals.

Victims reportedly included citizens from:

• Nigeria
• Kyrgyzstan
• Bangladesh
• Iraq
• Congo
• Mozambique
• Liberia

With the death of Okale, the total number of fatalities has increased to 22.

The incident triggered a massive rescue operation involving firefighters, police personnel, emergency responders, and medical teams.

Hotel Owner Arrested as Investigation Intensifies

Delhi Police have arrested the hotel's owner, Lavkesh Bajaj, in connection with the tragedy.

Authorities have registered a case under multiple sections, including charges related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, as investigators examine alleged negligence and violations of safety regulations.

Police have also taken into custody the hotel's cook, whose actions are reportedly being scrutinized as part of the investigation into the cause of the fire.

Officials stated that preliminary findings suggest the cook's activities may have contributed to the outbreak of the blaze, although the exact cause remains under investigation.

Serious Fire Safety Violations Under Scanner

Investigators have uncovered several alleged safety lapses at the hotel that may have worsened the impact of the fire.

According to the First Information Report (FIR) registered at Malviya Nagar Police Station, the establishment was reportedly operating 25 rooms despite having permission for only six rooms.

Authorities are also examining allegations of:

• Unauthorized expansion of hotel facilities
• Inadequate fire safety measures
• Deficient ventilation systems
• Lack of emergency preparedness protocols

These findings have raised serious concerns regarding compliance with building and fire safety regulations.

Rescue Teams Faced Challenges During Operation

The investigation has also revealed obstacles faced by emergency responders during rescue efforts.

Officials reported that the entrance to the basement was found locked when firefighters arrived at the scene.

Rescue personnel were forced to cut open the door to gain access and search for trapped occupants, potentially delaying evacuation efforts during the critical early stages of the emergency.

Authorities are evaluating whether such obstructions contributed to the high casualty count.

Search Underway for Absconding Associate

Delhi Police have launched a manhunt for Jay Mishra, an associate of the hotel owner who has allegedly been absconding since the incident.

Multiple police teams have been deployed to trace his whereabouts as investigators continue gathering evidence related to the operation and management of the hotel.

Officials have indicated that additional arrests could follow depending on the findings of the ongoing probe.

Investigation Continues

The Delhi hotel fire has once again brought attention to concerns surrounding fire safety compliance, unauthorized construction, and emergency preparedness in commercial establishments.

Authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze and identify all individuals responsible for any lapses that may have contributed to the tragedy.

As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, officials have assured that strict action will be taken against those found responsible.

(With inputs from agencies)