Kabana Beach, a restaurant located on Souffleur beach, in Port-Louis, fell prey to flames last night (Tuesday November 5, 2024). Its owner, Nicolas Sémar, speaks of arson.
Yesterday evening, around 9:05 p.m., firefighters were called to respond to a fire at the “Kabana Beach” restaurant. According to the emergency services, the fire started in the kitchen before spreading to an area leading to the dining room. Firefighters quickly managed to bring the fire under control, and fortunately, no casualties were reported.
This Wednesday morning, Souffleur beach, in Port-Louis, attracted the attention of a few curious people who came to observe the damage. Among them, some take photos, others remain silent in front of the partially charred remains of this popular place.
Georges, a regular here, is also present. He regularly came here to drink his coffee. Seeing the extent of the damage, he came to support the owner, Nicolas Sémar. “This touches me deeply. He's a young man that I know well, he puts a lot of effort into his work. Seeing his restaurant like this saddens me“, confides this former trader from Port-Louis, still in shock.
Marie-Michelle, resident of the town, shares this feeling. Saddened, she pays tribute to the owner's commitment: “It makes me sad, especially for him. He is a dynamic, experienced young person who hires young people from the region“.
For others, the circumstances of the fire arouse suspicion. Luc, a passerby, does not hesitate to mention an act “criminal“aroused by”jealousy“.
Amidst the debris, Nicolas Sémar tries to keep his cool, between anger and determination. According to him, an individual deliberately started the fire.
©Guadeloupe
He has already announced it. The restaurant will reopen its doors, “very quickly“.
Kabana Beach, located by the sea in the 50 geometric steps zone, has been at the center of a dispute with the municipality of Port-Louis for several months. Built without a permit or authorization, the restaurant extends over a protected natural coastal area, which has resulted in its owner being convicted twice by the courts.
Nicolas Sémar has so far resisted, with the support of many residents. Last April, the destruction of the busy restaurant was suspended in the face of the mobilization of its supporters.
