Swiss ski resort fire operator had past convictions in France: Report

ANKARA/LONDON

The operator of a bar where dozens of people died in a fire during New Year celebrations at a Swiss ski resort had previous criminal convictions in France, French media reported on Wednesday, as questions intensified over safety oversight at the venue.

At least 40 people were killed when the blaze broke out at a bar in Crans-Montana, a popular ski resort in Switzerland’s Valais canton.

Victims were aged between 14 and 39, with many under 18, according to authorities.

As scrutiny grows over safety standards, investigators have confirmed that the bar had not undergone an inspection for an extended period before the fire.

French media, citing sources close to the investigation, reported that the bar’s operator, Jacques Moretti, was sentenced in 2008 to 12 months in prison, eight of them suspended, for prostitution-related offences in the French city of Annecy.

He was also convicted of corruption in Bastia in 2010, the reports said.

The decision by Swiss prosecutors to release Moretti and his wife pending trial has drawn public criticism.

Prosecutors said the couple were freed because there was no risk they would flee the country.

The bar’s management has also come under scrutiny amid allegations that underage patrons were allowed into the venue.

Many of those who died in the fire were minors.

Swiss authorities said 119 people were injured in the blaze, most of them seriously.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani later suggested the death toll could be higher, saying it may have reached 47.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Witnesses told authorities that sparklers attached to champagne bottles may have ignited the blaze.

Hospitals in the surrounding area said intensive care units were full, with several injured victims transferred to neighbouring countries for treatment.