Huge fire in Ajman souq

Our Correspondent

A huge blaze broke out at an Iranian souq in the emirate of Ajman at about 6.30 pm on August 5. It was brought under complete control in a few hours by Civil Defence personnel. Police confirmed there were no casualties.

The souq had been closed for several months because of COVID-19 safety measures.

It is near the Ajman Speciality Hospital and a fruit and vegetable market in the city’s industrial area. The hospital was evacuated as a precautionary measure as the fire sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky.

Workers at the market saw the flames engulfing the area and alerted the emergency service.

Ajman Civil Defence, which brought the blaze under control at about 9 pm, were assisted by personnel from the emirates of Dubai, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.

Major Gen Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi, commander-in-chief of Ajman Police, said investigations are under way to determine the cause of the fire.

“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 Al Nuaimi said. He said 25 police vehicles were rushed to the spot to support civil defence staff.