People suspected to be scavengers, who set a heap of refuse on fire at the weekend, mistakenly burnt about 17 vehicles parked within the vicinity.

They were said to have set the refuse heap on fire to detect metals, irons and other needed waste but the fire spread to a nearby mechanic work shop where the vehicles were gutted by fire.

The incident occurred at old motor spare parts market popularly known as ‘Mgbuka market in Obosi, Idemili North Local Council Area.

Speaking on the incident, Chairman of the Mgbuka Market, Chief Emmanuel Obiagwu, said scavengers had caused a disaster explaining that the dump site was earmarked by the state Government for refuse dumping.

Exonerating the traders and himself from causing the fire incident, he said the motor mechanic is not part of the market.

“The owner of the mechanic workshop is not our member, he does not pay for security levy and other payments we make.

He should not point accusing finger at me or my members and to show sympathy I mobilized some traders, and called on the fire service men who stormed the scene and quenched the fire if not it would have escalated to the market which would have caused more tragedy”

“I also informed the Awada Divisional Police Officer,(DPO) Mr Josiah Bakyu who immediately sent his men to the scene.”

“A victim who pleaded anonymity said, “the car engine I procured for N1 million and the car have been burnt.”

Another victim who simply gave his name as James, said: “The devil has continued to tempt me.”

Moves by some organised youths who were mobilised to cause mayhem were thwarted by the Mgbuka chairman who sent his vigilance security men. (Independent)

•Photo showsscavengers at a dump site.