Fire outbreak rocks SPAR outlet in Calabar

A fierce fire outbreak engulfed the popular SPAR shopping outlet in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, on Saturday morning, sending plumes of smoke across the city. The flames were visible from Barracks Road, approximately 100 yards from the scene.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined. Inside the emporium, various activities, including baking, cooking, and electrical work, take place, which could potentially be contributing factors. The outlet, an Indian grocery store, has been in operation since 2012 and is situated in a central part of the city, near the Calabar Watt Market and the Bogobiri area.

Multiple fire service trucks responded to the incident and were observed attempting to pump water from the SPAR borehole to combat the blaze. Victoria, a journalist present at the scene, reported confusion in the car park and noted that fire service officials declined to comment when approached.

It is currently unknown if anyone is trapped inside the building. The scale of the fire and the ongoing efforts by emergency services highlight the severity of the situation at the busy commercial hub.

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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.