A fire outbreak on Wednesday night at the Ogbosisi Timber Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, destroyed several goods and caused panic among traders.
Videos shared online by an X user, Omaletocracy, showed traders trying to salvage their goods as flames engulfed parts of the market. The post read, “Head bridge mkt Onitsha is on fire 18/12/2024.”
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident on Thursday morning. The spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said no lives were lost and praised the quick response of the police and fire service, which helped bring the situation under control.
Ikenga stated, “The swift response of the Police and Fire Service operatives to the outbreak at Ogbosisi on 18/12/2024 by 8:45 pm brought the situation under control.
“Police operatives have cordoned off the scene to prevent hoodlums from taking undue advantage of the situation to loot properties and goods of individuals in the area. The command has begun an investigation into the cause of the fire, and the worth of goods destroyed is yet to be ascertained.”
Traders expressed sadness over their losses, as many of them watched helplessly while their goods burned.
Authorities assured the public that measures are in place to secure the market and prevent further incidents. Investigation into the cause of the fire continues.
