MIRI: A shophouse in Jalan Raja here was razed by fire in the wee hours yesterday.
Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported in the 12.45am fire.
The shophouse was selling a wide range of bags and shoes.
A fire engine from Miri fire station was mobilised to the scene after a distress call was received.
According to a source, prior to the incident, several hawkers at a nearby market had smelled smoke which triggered their curiosity. One of the hawkers then went to inspect which led him to the fire scene.
After seeing smoke billowing from the shophouse, he immediately alerted others and also called the Fire Department for assistance.
“As the shop shutters were closed we could not do anything to put out the fire,” said the man who wished anonymity.
Soon a team of firemen in a fire engine arrived at the scene. They managed to put out the fire within minutes.
Their swift action managed to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings.
The actual cause of the fire is being ascertained and investigations are being carried out.
