Fire razes down Mzuzu main market

Assorted merchandises worth millions of Malawi kwacha have been destroyed by fierce fire at Mzuzu Main Market leaving hundreds of traders destitute.

The fire, which started around 6.30pm, has comprehensively destroyed the whole area where fresh fish and bananas are sold.

Authorities are yet to establish the cause but one of the hawkers, Isaac Nyirenda, told Nyasa Times, the fire was spotted to have originated from restaurants.

“I was packing my products when I saw a thick smoke coming from one of the restaurants. In no time I discovered that it was fire and had spread to other areas. Together with some friends we called the fire brigade who responded very quickly,” he said.

The fire spread swiftly because of the oils and other flammable products stocked in cosmetic shops inside the main market which have all been razed down.

Also affected is the stretch where vegetables, tomatoes, Irish potatoes and other fresh farm produce are sold inside the market.

A heavy presence of police officers maintained peace and order as commotion engulfed the scene with some people wanting to make a quick kill at the expense of their dejected mortals.

There was no immediate comment from Mzuzu City Council officials, police as well as Electricity Supply Commission of Malawi (ESCOM).

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