No progress in Vizag harbour fire probe

Visakhapatnam: Police have made no progress in the investigation of harbour fire, which completely destroyed 40 boats and partially damaged another 20 boats on November 19.

Authorities have so far questioned 40 people connected to the fishing harbour. But they have failed to get any clue about those who perpetrated the fire.

Forensic Science Laboratory personnel have started collecting samples to determine whether chemicals had been used for lighting the fire.

“Since CCTV cameras in the harbour had remained non-functional on that day, police are checking cameras outside the harbour. They are also checking the location of mobile phones of people in that area at the time of the incident,” said an official from the intelligence department.

He said commissioner of police A. Ravi Shankar has formed six teams to locate the persons behind this man-made tragedy.

“People have got pacified after authorities gave cheques of compensation in the morning. There is no pressure from them on the investigation. There is joy among 400 workers who have received ₹10,000 each,” said a leader of the local fishermen community.