Firefighters put out Ajman market blaze, no casualties reported

A massive fire that broke out in a fruits and vegetables market in an Ajman souq on Wednesday evening has been put out.

The blaze had been brought under control in three hours and no casualties have been reported, according to Major General Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ajman Police.

The souq has been closed for four months due to Covid-19 safety measures.

"Civil Defence units and 25 police and ambulance vehicles responded immediately, reaching the incident site within three minutes and were able to isolate neighbouring buildings and bring the fire under control," said Sheikh Sultan Al Nuaimi.

The police evacuated the building and a cooling operation was instigated at the site.

Investigations are underway into the cause of the fire.

Firefighters from civil defence stations in Dubai, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain joined the Ajman force in battling the blaze.

The fire broke out



in the emirate's new industrial area. Several fire engines were seen rushing to the spot to put out the blaze.

The Ajman civil defence had earlier urged motorists to take alternative routes.

"Ajman firefighters cordoned off the site and used water and foam in extinguishing the blaze which spread to several shops at the market.

The cause of the fire is not yet known.

The souq, which is home to dozens of traders, is a popular attraction in Ajman, drawing visitors from across the Emirates.

Rajab Elsawi, who owns the Khadem Fresh Meat store opposite to the souq, said he alerted emergency services after he saw a thick blanket of black smoke develop.

He started to remove road barriers in order to allow fire crew access to the scene.

"It is a one-way road and barriers were placed to stop drivers from travelling against the flow of traffic, so I removed them to facilitate access for civil defence and police vehicles.