Probe into Aqaba toxic gas leak reaches ‘advanced stages’ — PM

AMMAN — The team investigating the Aqaba gas leak incident, which was formed by Prime Minister Bisher Al Khasawneh with the chairmanship of Interior Minister Mazen Faraya, has reached “advanced stages” and the public will be acquainted with findings upon completing the investigation, the PM said on Wednesday. 

Chairing a Cabinet session, Khasawneh also said that the public prosecutor office will also be notified about the investigation results, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The prime minister also expressed condolences to the victims’ families and wished the injured a speedy recovery. 

He said that the instant response and immense efforts, in addition to the coordination among all the concerned institutions contributed to the return of normalcy in Aqaba in less than 10 hours of the incident.

 He added that all facilities, navigation movement, ports and borders in the city resumed work normally. 

The premier referred to the great efforts of Aqaba hospitals in treating the injured with “high levels” of efficiency and professionalism.

The coastal city’s hospitals were able to accommodate the injured, who accounted only for 50 per cent of hospitals’ capacities.

He added that the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army (JAF) has prepared an emergency plan.

Khasawneh also praised the role of media outlets that published correct information from their sources and shunned rumours, commending the high level of awareness of Aqaba residents who responded to the regulations of the concerned agencies.