Families who were evacuated due to the fire that destroyed the Vanwoods Office have now returned to their homes.

The fire, which broke out at the Vanwoods Office in the Nambatu area shortly after midnight yesterday, has been put out. However, as of this morning, smoke continues to rise from the building, creating a strong smell in the area.

The lingering smoke and odor prompted authorities last night to evacuate some residents living nearby for safety reasons.

VBTC News visited the scene this morning and observed that police had taped off the area with tape, restricting public access.

The cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, and authorities are currently investigating what started the fire.

Eyewitnesses reported that the fire started around 12:00 a.m. yesterday, and the Vanuatu Fire Service arrived on the scene at approximately 12:05 a.m.

No one was inside the building at the time of the fire.

By this morning, businesses in the area had reopened, and operations have returned to normal.

VBTC will continue to follow up on this developing story.

MORE TO COME.