Investigation work continues as Bismark House Mill fire inquests open

Inquests have opened into the deaths of four men who were killed in the Bismark House Mill fire in Derker earlier this year.

The inquests - at Rochdale Coroner’s Court - were opened after partial remains of four victims, recovered from Bismark House Mill on Bower Street, were identified as Uoc Van Nguyen, Cuong Van Chu, Duong Van Nguyen and Nam Thanh Lee, using DNA samples from family members in Vietnam.  

- Uoc maintained regular contact with his wife until the date of the fire, at which time he said he was in a mill.

- Duong arrived in the UK approximately 12 months ago - he last contacted his family in the month before the fire at which time he said he was residing in ‘an abandoned house’ whilst looking for work.

- Nam arrived in the UK in January 2022 - he last contacted his family on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at which time he said he was residing in ‘a derelict house’ in ‘Dam’, believed to be Oldham, whilst looking for work.

- Cuong arrived in the UK in June 2019 - he maintained regular contact with his wife and children but they have not heard from him since Saturday, May 7, 2022.

Cuong’s family have paid tribute to him, saying: “Cuong's family are devastated at his tragic death in the most terrible circumstances.

"We are grateful for the work by Greater Manchester Police in finding Cuong and we are now wanting to have Cuong returned home to our family in Vietnam to finally lay him to rest peacefully."

The inquests were adjourned, pending the conclusion of the search and criminal investigation.

Teams have been searching the remnants of the mill, which was subject to a fire on Saturday, May 7, 2022, since demolition workers discovered human remains on Saturday, July 23, 2022.

The criminal investigation remains open, with the team previously arresting two individuals who are still on bail.

Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police via 101.

In an emergency, always dial 999.

International callers can contact GMP via +441618725050.

Information can also be submitted in English or Vietnamese via the Major Incident Public Portal here

Anyone who would like to remain anonymous can share information via the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

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