In a tragic incident that has sparked outrage and condemnation, Turkey has detained nine individuals, including the owner of the Grand Kartal Hotel, following a devastating fire that resulted in the deaths of 76 people at a ski resort in the Bolu mountains. The Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, announced the arrests as public scrutiny grows over the hotel's safety measures, which survivors claim failed during the crisis.Source: Al Jazeera

The fire erupted early on Tuesday at around 3:30 a.m. local time, quickly engulfing the 12-storey hotel while 238 registered guests were inside. Survivors described chaotic scenes as smoke-filled corridors hindered their escape, with reports indicating the fire detection system did not activate at any point. “It is evident even from the number of casualties that fire safety measures were not adequately taken in the facility,” stated the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects,according to Reuters.

The bodies of 45 victims have been returned to their families, while investigations continue to identify the remaining deceased through DNA testing. Of the injured, 51 people are reported to have sustained various degrees of harm from the fire, which took nearly 10 hours to control, reportedly hampered by the hotel’s location on a steep slope making access difficult for emergency services.Source: South China Morning Post

The tragedy unfolded during a peak winter tourism season, drawing many families to the Bolu mountains for skiing. In response, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a day of national mourning, emphasizing that those responsible for this calamity will face justice. “Our hearts are broken. We are in mourning,” Yerlikaya shared with the press, echoing sentiments of grief felt across the nation.Source: South China Morning Post

The hotel has expressed deep remorse, pledging its full cooperation in the ongoing investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. “We are cooperating with authorities to shed light on all aspects of this incident,” remarked the hotel management. Sympathy and condolences have poured in from international leaders, further highlighting the tragedy’s global impact.