MOGADISHU, Somalia – A devastating fire swept through Somalia’s main market in the capital, Mogadishu, witnesses and police said.
The traders tried to salvage their property at the Bakara market in the seaside city, while the security forces of the Somali government were trying to stop crowds from looting.
The blaze began late Saturday night and spread rapidly to shops selling clothes, household goods, and jewelry, witnesses said.
According to an eyewitness, the overnight inferno started at the Abdalla Shideye section and winds spread it rapidly through the market, razing large buildings, shops, and food stores.
The cause of the blaze is unknown. There have been no immediate reports of casualties.
A lack of firefighting equipment hampered rescue efforts.
