Arrests made following Grand Kartal Hotel fire

Turkish authorities have arrested 15 individuals as part of an investigation into a fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in the Bolu mountains that killed 78 people and injured dozens.

According to state media, those arrested include the hotel’s owner, manager, and director, along with 12 others.

Judicial proceedings continue for the deputy mayor of Bolu province and the head of the local fire department. Six others have been released under specific conditions.

The fire broke out in the early hours of January 21 on the restaurant floor of the 12-storey hotel, forcing guests to jump from windows to escape.

The hotel, located in the Kartalkaya ski resort, had 238 registered guests at the time.

Investigators cite fire safety failures

Reports indicate that the hotel lacked basic fire safety measures, including functioning alarms, clear fire exits, and sprinkler systems.

Survivors described chaotic evacuation efforts during the blaze, which began at approximately 3:30 a.m.

The Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects stated that sprinklers required by regulations in 2008 had not been installed at the Grand Kartal Hotel.

Independent experts have called for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations to prevent similar incidents.

President Erdogan pledges accountability

President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that Turkey’s judiciary is working to hold those responsible accountable.

The hotel’s management has pledged full cooperation with investigators.

International fire safety organisations, including the NFPA, have also offered support.

NFPA President Jim Pauley said: “As Turkey and its people recover from this tragedy, NFPA stands ready to support them by sharing our expertise and resources to strengthen fire safety in their country and communities.”

Turkey arrests 15 over Grand Kartal Hotel fire: Summary

Fifteen people, including the owner, manager, and director of the Grand Kartal Hotel in Turkey, have been arrested following a fire that killed 78 people.

Judicial proceedings are ongoing for additional individuals, including local officials.

The fire broke out in the early hours of January 21 in the 12-storey hotel, where safety violations such as a lack of alarms and sprinklers have been cited as factors contributing to the high death toll.

President Erdogan has promised accountability, while fire safety experts and organisations have called for improved safety standards to prevent future tragedies.