The police in Lagos state, Nigeria’s commercial capital have come out to explain what led to the fire incident at Alaba International Market in Ojo.
On Friday, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service reported that shops at the popular Alaba International Market are on Fire.
The agency also reported that angry mobs prevented firefighters from carrying out their duties.
In a tweet, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the incident in a terse statement by the agency’s director, Adeseye Margaret.
“Report reaching Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service indicates shops at the popular Alaba International Market, Ojo, Lagos are on Fire. However, Fire Crew from Ojo, Sari-Iganmu and Ajegunle are being turned back by angry mobs from performing their statutory duty but are presently on standby.
“The agency is consequently collaborating with Security Agents to address it.”
But in a tweet, while reacting to a report of the fire incident at the market, Police Spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said it was police officers from Ojo division, who set ablaze the shanties which were hideouts for criminals.
He said the police officers recovered some weapons from the hideouts.
