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CID called in to investigate fire at Port warehouse
View(s):The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) was yesterday summoned to conduct inquiries into Friday’s fire at a warehouse at the Colombo Port, as officials put the estimated damages at Rs 40 million.
Ports Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena said that the CID had been directed to ascertain whether the fire was an accident or arson. He said a parallel investigation headed by Ministry Secretary R.W. Premasiri was also under way.The warehouse which contained imported items such as textiles, shoes, electronic items, household items, and motor spares were destroyed in the fire, as the entire warehouse was gutted.Mr Abeygunawardena said that a new warehouse would have to be constructed.
The Government Analyst Department officials were yesterday carrying out investigations, and a detailed study was being carried out to assess the total damage. Damage to the goods is expected to be met by the shipping companies which have insured the goods, officials said. The fire had raged for five hours before it was brought under control.
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