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Triplets and twins among 15 children killed in electrical fire that swept through Egyptian church

Cairo, EgyptEdited By: Vyomica BerryUpdated: Aug 16, 2022, 09:51 AM IST
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People react during the funeral of victims, who died due to the fire that broke out at the Abu Sifin church, inside the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Warraq Al Arab district in Giza Governorate, Egypt Photograph:(Reuters)

Story highlights

Following an electrical short-circuit, a fire broke out on the first storey of Giza's Abu Sefein Church where children were attending classes

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that at least 15 children were killed in an electrical fire that swept through an Egyptian Coptic Christian church.

Following an electrical short-circuit, a fire broke out on the first storey of Giza's Abu Sefein Church where children were attending classes.

Causing a stampede when people rushed to flee the church through a blocked exit, 41 people died due to smoke inhalation.

According to worshipper Yasir Munir, ''People rushed to go down the stairs and started falling on top of each other.''

The child victims included five-year-old triplets Mohrael, Youssef and Philopator Bassem Amir according to local media.

Their death was mourned by their aunt, singer Miretya Emad, who wrote on Facebook "With Christ, which is far better. Remember us before the throne of grace."

A list of victims published by the Imbaba General Hospital included five-year-old twin girls Mariam and Barsina Tamir Wajih and their three-year-old brother Ibrahim.

Offering his condolences, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced that families of those who died will receive 100,000 Egyptian pounds ($5,220).

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(With inputs from agencies)

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