Bloemfontein police have opened an inquiry into the cause of the fire that broke out at Samson’s Building, popularly known as China City Mall, on Monday night.
No casualties have been reported but the fire is said to have caused extensive damage to the building which is situated at the corner of Charlotte Maxeke and Fitchardt streets in the city centre.
Police spokesperson for Mangaung Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane said in a statement police on patrol at about 7pm on Monday noticed smoke coming from the rooftop of the shopping complex and decided to investigate.
“The Fire Brigade . . . was called to the scene and arrived to fight the raging fire throughout the night,” said Covane.
“The extent of damage caused by the fire is still unknown. Forensic science laboratory fire investigators are expected to visit the scene to . . . determine the cause and extent of the fire damage,” he added.
City authorities say the fire was extinguished at about 12.40am.
Fire Services have advised those in nearby buildings not to open for business as there is still smoke coming from the razed mall as such smoke can be very harmful to people or destructive to property due to elemental chemical by-products. – Staff Reporter