Algerian orphanage fire kills 11


A faulty air‑conditioner sparked a blaze that tore through a children's orphanage in Algiers early Thursday, leaving 11 dead and 19 injured.


The air‑conditioner had been running continuously during a sweltering heatwave before the spark ignited the building’s wooden structure. For about three hours, fire engines and ambulance crews fought the flames.


President Abdelmajid Tebboune confirmed children were among the victims, while Prime Minister Sidi Ghrieb visited hospitals treating survivors.


Fire‑safety authorities have called for a thorough investigation and nationwide reviews of safety protocols in care homes, schools and hospitals.



Police at the orphanage gate
Crowd gathers outside the orphanage after the blaze, causing widespread shock.