A devastating fire at a care home in Sri Lanka has killed at least 12 people, with two others still missing after flames tore through the facility in the early hours.
The blaze broke out in Batagoda, Anguruwatota, about 53 kilometers south of the capital Colombo, rapidly engulfing a care home housing elderly residents and people with intellectual disabilities.
Emergency responders, supported by local residents, rushed to the scene as firefighters battled intense flames and tried to rescue those trapped inside.
Authorities say eight injured people were taken to hospital for treatment, while 51 residents were safely evacuated from the building.
Many of the survivors were later relocated to a nearby government school, which has been set up as a temporary shelter.
One local resident described the chaos, saying it was a massive fire and that neighbours joined firefighters in trying to save as many people as possible.
Police have launched a full investigation into the cause of the blaze, which is now being treated as one of the deadliest care facility fires in the country in recent years.
Officials are working to identify victims and locate the two people still missing amid the charred remains of the building.
The tragedy has raised fresh concerns about safety standards and emergency preparedness in residential care facilities.
As the investigation continues, authorities say support efforts are being organized for affected families and survivors.
