Early morning blaze destroys Hatanga head office
FIRE fighters were unable to stop an early morning blaze that gutted the headquarters of Hatanga Ltd at Ranadi, east Honiara, last Friday.
By day break, the main complex that housed the company’s office and warehouse was gone.
“The fire started at around 3am,” a neighbour told the Solomon Star.
“The fire truck did not get here until after almost an hour later,” the neighbour added.
“I think the building could have been saved if the fire fighters get here in time.”
The company lost valuable documents and office equipment.
Cargoes worth millions of dollars stored in the warehouse, and which belong to Hatanga’s sister company the Bulk Shop, were also destroyed in the fire.
Hatanga’s timber yard, located in the same compound, was unaffected.
No company director was immediately available yesterday to comment on the tragedy.
Acting Police Commissioner Juanita Matanga said an investigation into the fire is underway.
“It was an unfortunate incident. The police are now investigating and are determined to establish the cause of the fire,” she said.
Hatanga Ltd is owned by former Small Malaita MP Alex Bartlett and his family.
It was one for the fastest growing companies engaging in construction, timber supply, and road works.
The company employs more than 300 locals.
A company employee said they are yet to be given instructions as to their relocation.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
