Elder care home fire death toll rises to 12

12 people died in a fire at an elder care home in Horana, according to Police Media Spokesperson Assistant Superintendent of Police F. U. Wuttler.

The director of the facility was arrested and is scheduled to be produced before the Horana Magistrate's Court.

8 people injured in the fire, which broke out last afternoon (3), continue to receive treatment at the Horana Base Hospital and the Galpatha Regional Hospital.

At the time the fire erupted, 72 residents in total, including 37 women and 35 men.

51 individuals caught in the fire were rescued and are currently accommodated at the Batagoda Daycare Centre.

Defence Secretary Retired Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha visited the scene last night.