Fire destroys property worth Sh50 million

An estimated Sh50 million worth of property was destroyed when fire gutted down a building in Kisii town.

The fire reportedly broke out at around 11.30pm on Saturday, less than two hours after another blaze burnt down a hotel in the town.

Shop owners said computers, cameras and other goods were looted.

County Chief Officer in charge of Administration, Patrick Lumumba said property was destroyed as looters took advantage of the situation to break into shops.

Lumumba said the building could not easily be accessed by firefighters. He however lauded the firefighters for responding very fast. He also warned landlords who have not met disaster management regulations.

"We will reinforce our fire department to ensure fire cylinders, fire dampers and fire-stop flaps are inspected on time," said Lumumba.

George Matoke, who occupies an office in the building, lost three computers. The building also houses institutions, restaurants and advocates' offices.

High Court lawyer Onyancha Koina lost half of his documents after his office and restaurant were razed down completely.

"I have lost approximately Sh1.5 million in this inferno and I don't know where to start. I don't know what to tell my clients," said Koina.

Witnesses said the fire team seemed to lack skills of handling the firefighting machines.