Shipbreaking Fire Kills 6, Leads to Three Arrests

In Alang, a fire broke out on an oil tanker that was being dismantled resulting in the unfortunate death of six workers nearly a week ago. Following this incident, three shipbreaking executives have now been taken into custody for culpable homicide.

The owners of the Kiran Ship Breaking Company, R K Jain and V K Jain, as well as the firm’s manager were arrested. However, the owners were transported to a nearby hospital shortly after their arrest after complaining of severe chest pain. The Times of India reports that is the first time that ship breakers have been arrested on such a premise.

Police officials have confirmed the arrests. On top of culpable homicide charges, the trio is also accused of negligent conduct with respect to fire.

Five employees died on scene, another at a local hospital, and one more is clinging to life in the hospital after suffering severe burns from the blaze.

After the incident, different agencies launched investigations and found negligence on part of the company. Many have also concluded that there was a case of negligence and violation of safety rules on part of the ship owners.