Four persons were feared dead, while goods worth millions of naira were destroyed yesterday, in a fire outbreak at the drug market popularly known as Ogbo Ogwu market, Onitsha, Anambra State.

More than twelve persons were also said to have sustained injuries in the fire, which affected the chemical /Surgical section of the market.

The cause of the fire outbreak could not be immediately ascertained, but one version linked the fire to chemical explosion, which rocked one of the buildings in the market.

An eyewitness said the fire started at about 12:45 p.m. as a result of a suspected chemical explosion in a building, which forced people to run in different directions for safety.

He said: “One of the buildings collapsed and fell on people due to chemical explosion. Many people died in the process as they tried to run for safety.

“The stampede in the market led to traders, customers and others scampering to safety, causing death of four persons, while more than twelve sustained injuries in the process.”

Confirming the incident, the Director, Fire Service in the state, Engr. Martin Agbili, said the cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

He said the fire affected a section of the market, adding, “The cause of the fire and extent of damages are yet to be ascertained, but my men are currently at the scene battling the fire.”

Also, the Anambra state Police Public Relationship Officer (PPRO), Ikenga Tochukwu, has confirmed the fire incident, saying policemen are on ground to take charge of the situation.

He said: “The situation is under control. The deputy Commissioner in charge of operation is currently there and the fire service operatives are also on ground. Further details shall be communicated.”