By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on Sunday visited the scene of a fire outbreak at the Plumbing Materials Market, Headbridge, Onitsha to commiserate with the victims.

According to a statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the CP during the visit assessed the extent of damage at the market.

He expressed deep sympathy to those affected by the unfortunate incident and assured them of the Command’s support, particularly in ensuring the security of lives and property in the area, to prevent further losses or exploitation by criminal elements.

The CP noted that preliminary information suggests that the fire may have been caused by heat generated from the storage of inflammable materials, particularly pipes, as well as possible non-adherence to fire safety regulations.

Ikenga said: "As investigations into the incident continue, the Commissioner of Police commended the swift response of emergency responders, including the Fire Service and other relevant agencies, whose timely intervention helped contain the situation and prevent further escalation. He also noted that no lives were lost in the incident."

The CP was accompanied on the visit by the Divisional Police Officer, Headbridge Division, CSP Onyinaya Uche, alongside other relevant stakeholders in the market.

The Command further urged the traders and residents to adhere strictly to safety guidelines, especially in the storage and handling of inflammable materials, to avert future occurrences.