News

Major fire breaks out in Suva CBD

May 22, 2020 6:45 pm

A major fire has broken out at the Flea Market opposite the Suva Bus Stand. [Source: Aca James Small]

A major fire broke out at the Flea Market opposite the Suva Bus Stand.

FBC News understands a Value City outlet was destroyed in the fire as firefighters try to bring the blaze under control.

Newly built kiosks are also believed to be on fire.

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The Food City Supermarket and nearby shops were also closed as a precautionary measure.

 

Police officers were at the scene controlling the movement of the people as many workers were trying to return home.

Handicraft Stall Owner Vani Tura says they were alerted at around 4:30pm that the fire started from a restaurant at the back of the Flea market.

Tura says the windy conditions experienced in the area and materials such as plastic and mats contributed to the blaze spreading quickly.

 

Soko Beauty was one of over 50 market booths that were completely destroyed.

Owner Talei Sokoiwasa was shocked when she learned about the incident as her valuable items were kept in the booth.

“When I saw it on social media that the Flea market burnt. When I came I got a shock as I was thinking of my passport and business license was in my drawer. I hope the building owner will help us and we just started our business and starts growing”.

Firefighters responded quickly to try and contain the blaze from spreading further particularly to oil tanks nearby.

The National Fire Authority is still trying to ascertain the cause of the fire.