Bismark House Mill fire: Repatriation complete following multi-agency operation

The repatriation of four Vietnamese nationals whose remains were discovered in the remnants of Bismark House Mill is complete, following a multi-agency operation involving GMP, His Majesty’s Coroner, the National Crime Agency, Oldham Council, and international authorities.

The premises was subject to a fire on Saturday 7 May 2022 and teams searched the remnants for six months, after demolition workers discovered human remains on Saturday 23 July 2022.

Partial remains of four victims were recovered during the search. DNA testing identified the remains as those of Uoc Van Nguyen, Cuong Van Chu, Duong Van Nguyen and Nam Thanh.

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

Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes, GMP’s Disaster Victim Identification lead, said: “It is a huge relief for the bereaved families to finally have their loved ones back in Vietnam. They have been extremely patient during what has been a difficult time for them, as we ensured that all remains were ethically recovered and identified. Our thoughts will remain with them as they come to terms with their losses. Whilst we met with them last week as we finalised repatriation, they will continue to be updated via family liaison officers and translators.”

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: Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).

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