Fire Guts Popular SPAR Outlet in Calabar

A fierce fire outbreak was reported at the popular SPAR shopping outlet in Calabar, Cross River State, on Saturday morning.

‎The fire, which reportedly started inside the shopping complex, sent thick smoke billowing across parts of the city, while flames could be seen from Barracks Road, about 100 yards from the scene.

‎The cause of the fire was yet to be ascertained as of the time of filing this report. The outlet houses several operational facilities, including a bakery, cooking section and electrical installations, which could potentially be linked to the incident.

A journalist at the scene, identified as Victoria, told Vanguard that about three fire service trucks had arrived at the outlet and were attempting to draw water from the SPAR borehole to combat the blaze.

‎“About three fire service trucks have arrived. They are trying to pump water from SPAR borehole to try to put out the fire. It is not known if anybody is trapped inside, but there is confusion here at the car park,” she said.

She added that firefighters at the scene declined to comment on the incident.

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There were no immediate reports confirming casualties or whether anyone was trapped inside the building.

SPAR, an Indian-owned retail outlet, is located near Watt Market and Bogobiri in the heart of Calabar. The outlet commenced operations in the city in 2012.