Fire razes shop at Ekounou, kills two Chinese

A fire outbreak has reportedly destroyed two shops at Ekounou. The owners of the shop who happen to be Chinese merchants who have settled at Ekounou market to do business lost their lives in this unfortunate incident.

Ming Xiao Jin, 22 years old, owner of the shop ravaged by flames Tuesday at the Ekounou market (Yaoundé) according to witnesses could have been saved as constituted relief managed to break part of the door to the store. Breaking free out of the grips of witnesses to save his 18 year-old brother, Yu Chao, from the fire, the two got trapped in the shop and got burnt under the helpless gaze of the witnesses.

According to a statement, confirmed by the Office of the Commissioner of the 14th district, the fire started around midnight. Residents attempted to pull down the door but were not successful. They succeeded in making a hole through which they send buckets of water to fight the ravaging flames. Firefighters from Mimboman unit arrived to save the situation.

Witnesses noted that it was as a result of their timely intervention that the fire did not spread. However, it remains unknown how the fire started. It is assumed that the fire was caused by either a short circuit or negligence in relation to the handling of fire.

The damaged shop is said to have served at the same time as a 'home' to its owners. A corner at the rear was used as dormitory and kitchen. The store contained items like televisions, computers, flowers, shoes, clothing, etc.

The two remains of the unfortunate were discharged by their compatriots Li He Ping and Li Guo Ping, and deposited at the mortuary of the general hospital in Yaoundé.