BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (AP) — A devastating fire that occurred in a marginalized Roma settlement in eastern Slovakia led to the tragic loss of five lives, four of whom were children, officials reported on Thursday. The incident took place in Velky Saris, where local government authorities confirmed that the blaze destroyed eight houses which were home to approximately 30 residents.

In the aftermath of the fire, a total of 11 adults and seven children were relocated to a community center as their homes were rendered uninhabitable due to the damage caused by the fire. The exact cause of the fire, which broke out just before midnight, remains unknown as investigations are still underway to determine what ignited the flames.

The Roma community is recognized as the most socially excluded minority group in Slovakia, grappling with a long-standing history of discrimination, marginalization, and poverty. The settlement in Velky Saris is one of many similar impoverished and segregated areas, where the poorest 20% of Slovakia's 400,000 Roma population reside. Conditions in such settlements are often dire, with inhabitants frequently lacking access to basic necessities like running water, sewage systems, gas, or electricity.

As the local authorities work to provide assistance to those affected by the fire, the tragedy sheds light on the broader issues faced by the Roma community in Slovakia. The ongoing challenges of living in impoverished conditions, compounded by systemic inequalities, highlight the urgent need for social support and intervention to improve living standards for marginalized groups in the country.

In response to the disaster, community leaders and social activists may call for increased attention from the government and non-profit organizations to address the systemic issues that lead to such unfortunate events. The fire serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the Roma community and emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive solutions to alleviate their struggles and improve their living conditions.