Perhaps some kids were scooped up and sold. Think of it -- while the fire is blazing, "rescue workers" arrive at the door to bring kids to "safety". Shortly thereafter the torch team arrives to pIllage the place and burn it down, or they call in the DEW. Could something like that happen, with no witnesses?

That would better than being burned alive in their homes. At least there would be a chance of being rescued, and the perpetrators brought to justice.