River Valley shophouse fire: SCDF found unauthorised partitions, safety non-compliances

The shophouse fire at 278 River Valley Road on Apr. 8 that killed one 10-year-old girl likely originated from an area used for storage on the second storey.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said in a Facebook post on Apr. 9 that they conducted investigations at the affected premises to determine the cause of the fire and whether there were any fire safety non-compliances.

Fire safety non-compliances found

Preliminary investigations also found fire safety non-compliances, including unauthorised works involving the erection of partitions within the premises, SCDF said.

"SCDF takes a very serious view of fire safety non-compliances, as they pose significant risks to lives and property," they added.

The responsible entity may face a fine of up to S$200,000, imprisonment of up to 24 months, or both.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

URA investigating

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is also conducting investigations as well, a spokesperson confirmed with Mothership.

The site at 278 River Valley Road is a three-storey building with an attic, they said.

The first storey is approved for use as a children’s enrichment centre, while the second and third storeys, as well as the attic, are approved for residential use, the authority added.

Under the Planning Act, parties found to be guilty of unauthorised use of premises shall be liable to a fine up to S$200,000.

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Top photos from SCDF/Facebook and Bae Bay/Facebook