Fire guts 23 houses in Mangochi
About 100 people are destitute after fire gutted down 23 houses in Kafukuta Village in the area of Traditional Authority Nankumba in Mangochi District.
Mangochi Police Station spokesperson Rodrick Maida said the accident happened at around noon on Sunday.
The District Commissioner for Mangochi Moses Chimphepo confirmed the incident to Nation Online saying those affected are now seeking refuge in homes of their relatives.
Chimphepo added that assistance has already started trickling in from well-wishers and his office is mobilising more resources to assist the people.
The Mangochi Police publicist quoted one of the victims, Leonard Mbewe, who said the fire started after a seven year old girl left fire which she was playing with unattended.
“Suddenly, Mwera winds blew and carried the fire to a nearby video show room, burning it to ashes, before spreading to 23 other houses with roofs made of wood and grass damaging properties worth over K16, 890,” he said.
According to Maida, the property include beddings, clothes, kitchen utensils and farm produce. He said no one has been injured in the accident.
Meanwhile, police have advised the public to be cautious with fire and never leave minors unattended especially when they are playing with fire to avoid such incidents.
