2 killed as fire engulfs Mogadishu's main market

A raging fire engulfed Mogadishu’s main market, killing at least two people with traders reporting a huge loss of property.

A witnessed reported that the inferno started at the gold bazaar and winds spread it rapidly through the Bakaara market, razing large buildings, shops and food stores.

“The fire razed about two square kilometers in an area full of iron sheet stores. May Allaah help those who have been affected by the fire tragedy, “ said Abukar Abdi, a resident at Bakaara.

Firefighters eventually managed to control the fire that sent the whole city of Mogadishu in panic.

Police are still investigating the cause of the fire but traders have blamed it on power fault. Traders have reported huge losses due to the fire that sent plumes of smoke into the air.