One dead, several stalls destroyed in suspected arson at Mogadishu Bakara Market

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Sunday March 10, 2024

Mogadishu (HOL) — A devastating fire broke out early this morning at Bakara Market, the largest market in Somalia. One person was killed, and several stalls were destroyed. Mohamed Yabooh, the Deputy Commissioner of Security and Politics for the Banadir regional administration, confirmed that the fire had been successfully contained after spreading to various parts of the market.

The fire began in the business areas between the building of the Somtel company and Abdalla-shideeye market, primarily affecting stalls selling electronics and luggage. While some have been completely destroyed, others continued to burn for several hours. Firefighting units from the Banadir regional administration and private sectors were promptly dispatched to the scene.

The origin of the fire is under investigation, with officials from the Banadir region administration accusing the al-Shabaab group of initiating the blaze by placing explosives within the market. The incident recalls a similar tragedy that occurred in January of the previous year, causing significant damage.

Local traders and business owners have been significantly impacted. “A disaster has occurred here; mobile phones and other items have exploded,” a market trader reported to the Somali government’s national media. Another local business owner lamented, “Everything in the restaurant is gone. Now, I’m left with nothing.”

Authorities have reported that one individual died in the fire, and the property damage is currently being assessed. An investigation into the incident is underway, with efforts focused on identifying and arresting those responsible for starting the fire.

The fire at Bakara Market, a vital economic hub offering a wide range of products from food to household appliances, has once again highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by the traders and the local community. The market has experienced similar destructive events, with significant fires reported in 2019 and 2017.



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