8 fires in a week 'intentionally started' at Yishun executive condo North Gaia's construction site: SCDF
Two people were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation in one of the cases.
The construction site of North Gaia, the executive condominium located near Yishun Close. (File photo: Google Maps)
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SINGAPORE: Eight fire incidents that occurred over the past week at a Yishun executive condominium construction site were found to be "intentionally started", the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said on Wednesday (Nov 27.)
In response to CNA's queries, SCDF said the incidents happened between Nov 20 and Nov 27 at North Gaia.
In one of the cases, two people were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported.
"The fires mainly involved construction materials and furniture at various locations within the construction site and were either swiftly extinguished by SCDF or by the construction workers there," said SCDF.
"SCDF’s preliminary investigation findings indicate that the fires were intentionally started," it added.
Police told CNA that reports have been lodged and they are investigating the incidents.
Sing Holdings, the developer of North Gaia, said on Thursday in response to CNA's queries that it has instructed its main contractor to stop work at the affected units and those directly above and below them.
"Other than these units, construction works are ongoing at the site."
"The matter has been handed over to the police. No action has been taken against anyone," added the developer.
The company said that it has instructed a professional engineer to inspect the integrity of the affected units and rectification works will be carried out if necessary.
"The site continues to abide by fire safety regulations. Additional measures have been implemented to step up security at the site to ensure that only authorised working personnel are allowed entry," Sing Holdings said.
It added that the tightened security measures were explained to the workers. Daily briefings are also conducted on fire safety measures and standard operating procedures, such as evacuation routes, in the event of a fire.
The estimated completion date of the project remains unchanged, said Sing Holdings.
According to the condo's website, North Gaia is slated to obtain its Temporary Occupation Permit in June 2027. The project comprises over 600 residential units.
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