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Six Somali nationals, all members of the same family, died in a suspected gas heater accident at their residence in Cairo, Egypt. The tragic incident occurred just five days after their arrival in Cairo for medical purposes. Relatives confirmed the deaths on Sunday after losing contact with the family late on Friday afternoon.
Discovery of the Incident
Relatives raised the alarm when attempts to reach the family were unsuccessful. Hassan Hirsi Hussein, a relative, recounted the heartbreaking discovery. “After losing contact, we contacted the Somali Embassy in Cairo, which facilitated the opening of their house door,” he told Somali Universal TV. Inside, authorities discovered the lifeless bodies of the family members.
The deceased had only recently traveled to Egypt, with some returning from Turkey and others directly from Somalia. The family’s purpose for travel was reportedly medical treatment, making the tragedy even more poignant.
Investigation Underway
Egyptian health officials are currently conducting examinations on the victims’ bodies, which have been stored in a local morgue freezer. Egyptian security forces have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary findings point to a gas heater malfunction, which may have led to carbon monoxide poisoning—a silent and deadly hazard.
The Somali Embassy in Cairo is closely monitoring the situation, with Consul Ismail Abdi Hussein confirming the ongoing investigation. “We are working with Egyptian authorities to understand what happened and to provide support to the family members back home,” the consul stated.
A Shared Grief
The Somali community, both in Cairo and abroad, is mourning the loss. Families and friends expressed their grief and solidarity on social media, with calls for heightened safety awareness regarding gas heaters and other household equipment.
The tragedy highlights the vulnerabilities faced by migrant families in unfamiliar environments. Advocacy groups have stressed the importance of safety checks and awareness for those relocating for medical, educational, or other reasons.
Rising Concerns Over Gas Heater Safety
This incident is a sobering reminder of the risks associated with gas heating systems, especially in colder months. Carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, is a common byproduct of malfunctioning gas appliances. Without adequate ventilation or functioning detectors, exposure can quickly become fatal.
The Road Ahead
As Somali authorities work to repatriate the bodies for burial, community leaders have emphasized the need for greater cooperation between embassies and host countries to ensure the safety and well-being of Somali nationals abroad.
This tragedy has underscored the importance of vigilance, community support, and robust safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.