A fire at New Soweto Market destroyed three makeshift restaurants and one electronic shop in the early hours of Thursday, police say. The Zambia Police Service said the blaze broke out around 03:00 hours at the market opposite Namununga School. Police public relations officer Godfrey Chilabi explained that security personnel on duty spotted smoke and […]

A fire at New Soweto Market destroyed three makeshift restaurants and one electronic shop in the early hours of Thursday, police say.

The Zambia Police Service said the blaze broke out around 03:00 hours at the market opposite Namununga School.

Police public relations officer Godfrey Chilabi explained that security personnel on duty spotted smoke and flames coming from one of the restaurants and alerted police.

“Officers from Lusaka Central Police Station, through New Soweto Police Post, responded with the Lusaka City Council Fire Brigade. The fire was extinguished around 04:30 hours,” he said.

Fortunately no injuries or deaths were reported and the cause of the fire has not yet been established and the value of property destroyed is still being assessed.

“An inquiry file has been opened and investigations are ongoing. Police have urged the public to remain calm,” Chilabi added.

Francis Chipalo

Pic for illustration purposes only