KERANIGANJ FIRE

Factory was sealed-off after a previous fire

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The gas lighter manufacturing factory in Keraniganj, where a devastating fire killed at least six people on Saturday, had been operating illegally, police said.

Mohammad Mossaraf Hossain, inspector (investigation) of Keraniganj Police Station, told The Daily Star that the factory was sealed off after catching fire about one and a half years ago.

However, the owners later resumed operations, allegedly with the support of a local influential -- Md Iman Ullah, 50.

Police arrested Iman in connection with Saturday’s incident. A 10-day remand has been sought, and a hearing on the petition is scheduled for today.

Sub-Inspector Jewel Rana filed a case with South Keraniganj Police Station, accusing factory

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