Deadly Fire Engulfs Chinese Shoe Factory, Killing 28

A devastating fire ripped through a shoe factory in Jinjiang, Fujian province, on July 9, claiming the lives of at least 28 people. Jinjiang, known as the 'Capital of Shoes,' is a major hub for China's footwear industry, producing approximately 20% of the world's sports shoes.

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The fire started on the first floor where flammable materials were stored.

The fire, which began around noon, is believed to have originated on the first floor where flammable materials were stored. The nature of shoe manufacturing materials contributed to the rapid spread of the blaze. Firefighters battled the flames for hours, with the fire being extinguished around 5:40 p.m. Sadly, 26 bodies were discovered at the scene, with two additional individuals succumbing to their injuries later.

Over 500 rescue personnel, including firefighters, medical teams, and public security officers, were deployed to the site. Rescue efforts were hampered by the accumulation of various items in the building's stairwells and corridors, according to the local fire department. A total of 213 people were evacuated from the premises.

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There were many items piled up on the building's stairwells and corridors, which made rescue operations difficult.

In response to the tragedy, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for all-out efforts in rescue and relief work, including treating the injured and supporting the families of the deceased. He also expressed concern over the series of major safety accidents occurring in China this year. Several factory safety officials and employees have been detained, and the factory's bank accounts have been frozen. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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We must make all-out efforts in rescue and relief work, swiftly investigate the cause of the accident, and hold those responsible strictly accountable.