News

Mother and son narrowly escape Lautoka house fire

February 18, 2026 10:56 am

[Photo: SUPPLIED]

A two-bedroom home at Saru Back Road, Lautoka, was destroyed by fire in the early hours of Sunday.

According to the National Fire Authority, the property – located outside the designated fire boundary – is owned by 30-year-old Binitesh Sharma, who lived there with his 72-year-old mother, Veenat Kumari.

Preliminary information indicates the fire started after Sharma put a mobile phone on charge before going to sleep.

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He reportedly woke to a sparking sound, followed by heat and smoke, before observing flames on the wall.

He immediately alerted his mother, and both evacuated safely without injury.

The NFA estimates the damage at $80,000, representing a total loss of the structure.

While a full investigation is underway, preliminary assessments suggest an electrical fault linked to the mobile phone charging point.

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