Relatives of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire have been prevented from paying tribute as a result of issues applying for UK visas.
According to reports, many grieving relatives have missed the chance to pay tribute or attend a public enquiry due to UK immigration problems and visa delays.
One of the relatives was Karim Khaloufi, younger brother of Grenfell victim Khadija Khaloufi, revealed that he obtained his visa but faced problems with accommodation. As a result, his solicitor confirmed that he was unable to attend the public hearing on behalf of his family.
Speaking in a statement, Mr Khaloufi said: “No one seems to care about our history or relationship to this case, or to care about our pain, our heartache or our desire for answers. I am now at a loss as to what I can do to defend my family’s rights and to represent my sister.”
Another relative who was unable to pay tribute was the husband of Fatemah Afrasiabi, whose UK immigration application was refused.
According to his son, Mohammed Samimi, his father is desperate to visit his wife’s grave as the anniversary of the event approaches.
Speaking through an interpreter, he said: “I wanted to take this opportunity to remember my father, who could not come to the UK. His visa application was refused, and he says: ‘I am spending my days and nights by the thought of my children and I want to be able to visit my wife’s grave.’”