Kelei urges calm and responsibility amid Mendi fire tragedies

A prominent Mendi businessman has appealed for restraint and responsibility on social media following a series of devastating fire incidents in Mendi town, warning that the spread of unverified information is deepening trauma for affected business owners.

Managing Director of PISGAH Trading Ltd, David Kelei, whose supermarket was among more than five businesses destroyed by fire, said those affected are still struggling to come to terms with the losses.

Speaking on behalf of local business owners, SME operators and property owners, Kelei said irresponsible online commentary and speculation were causing unnecessary confusion and distress.

“We are in total shock and still trying to understand what has happened,” he said. “It is disappointing to see people spreading unverified information on social media that only stirs confusion and controversy."

Kelei confirmed that the fire incidents are now under official investigation and urged the public to allow authorities to do their work without interference or speculation.