Two landlords have been fined over £90,000 after a fatal fire in a grossly overcrowded flat in East London. Mizanur Rahman died from smoke inhalation after the blaze, which started from a faulty lithium-ion e-bike battery. The couple, Sofina Begum and Aminur Rahman, pleaded guilty to multiple housing offenses, highlighting their negligence towards the welfare of renters. A judge noted their primary concern appeared to be financial gain, which compounded the tragedy of the overcrowding, with reports indicating up to 22 individuals lived in a small, unsuitable space.
Judge Emma Smith stated, 'both defendants showed blatant disregard to the law and welfare of the occupants. Their only concern was for their own financial gain.'
Gemma Gillett from Tower Hamlets Council emphasized, 'The property was, and had been considerably for some time, grossly overcrowded. The information suggests that some 23 people were in occupation of the flat.'
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