Police have launched an investigation into a fire incident in Hulhumalé that left a 13-year-old boy with severe burn injuries.

According to a police media official, authorities began their inquiry last Thursday upon receiving reports of the incident. The investigation aims to determine how the child sustained the burns.

Reports indicate that the fire occurred when the boy turned on the gas knob of a stove and, after a few minutes, lit a lighter to ignite it. By that time, gas had heavily leaked into the air, triggering a loud explosion and flames.

The child suffered burns on 50 percent of his body and is currently receiving treatment at Hulhumalé Hospital. Notably, the incident was not reported to the MNDF Fire and Rescue at the time.