Some sources said, the fire broke out on the first floor of one of the three-story buildings located at the northeaster portion of the resort. Laborers who saw the fire immediately called the Division of Fire and Rescue. However, the fire spread faster giving firefighters difficulty in putting out the fire.
The fire reportedly started at around 9 a.m. At 12 noon the entire edifice turned into ashes. No reported injuries so far.
The building structures were made of wood and other combustible materials. Thinners, paints and aircon freon exploded accompanied by hot temperature causing flames which engulfed bungalows and the Dynasty and KTV Restaurant or the former bais’ house.
There were only two fire trucks on hand to try to extinguish the fire that ate up the entire establishment.
According to Foreign Investment Board (FIB) Executive officer Encely L. Ngiraiwet, the project is operated by Inter-Pacific Development Corporation, a real estate company owned by former State Minister Temmy Shmull along with other two Taiwanese partners Chin-Heng Wang and Ms. Yunn-Chyi Lee.
The FIB issued the license permit in 1998.
The $5 million resort project, according to some informants is about to open and become operational this year. Each room was fully furnished. The construction project began five years ago.
Based on the initial report, the cause of fire was faulty electrical wiring.
The Criminal and Investigation Division is still conducting further investigation
Meanwhile, Shmull has made his statement on the incident.
On his press release, Shmull said “the IPDC is fully committed to be a part and in partnership with the people and the government of Palau to continue to develop Palau’s tourism industry. Our plan to open and operate the IPRC is a testament to that commitment.”
Mr. Shmull further commented “I would like to thank on behalf of our company, those who risked their lives and safety to ensure that the fire was contained within the Resort’s parameters without causing any further harm and injuries to the families in the surrounding area. Although we lost the Resort property, we are thankful that all of our staff got out to their office and the job site safely.”
“Our company will assess the current situation, weigh our options, and move on.” Shmull added.
