Flames and Felons: 65 Motorcycles Vanish in Sokoto Market Blaze
In a shocking twist to the tragic fire that engulfed part of Sokoto central market, it has emerged that 65 motorcycles were stolen amidst the chaos. The Chairman of Sokoto State Motorcycles Marketers Association, Garba Muhammed, revealed the startling theft during a somber address on Tuesday.
The inferno, which reportedly originated from a refuse dump site, ravaged a vibrant section of the market dedicated to the sale of motorcycles and bicycles. The blaze, igniting in the early hours of around 4 am, laid waste to 21 stores and 41 permanent shops, while an additional 110 temporary stalls were also consumed by the flames.
In a devious act of opportunism, thieves masquerading as rescuers seized the moment to pilfer 65 motorcycles and 10 new engines, leaving traders in despair. The chairman’s plea for state intervention highlighted the dire straits of the victims, many of whom have seen their livelihoods go up in smoke.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who visited the site to offer condolences, has pledged action, announcing the formation of a committee to investigate the fire’s origins and assess the extent of the damage. He assured the affected that the government would extend support within its means.
In a decisive move, Governor Aliyu has instructed the market’s management to clear the refuse that sparked the disaster within three weeks, hinting at the market’s potential closure should they fail to comply. The community now waits with bated breath as the aftermath of the fire continues to unfold.
