Police probe on Anyar market fire

Tue, 09/23/2008 10:02 AM  |  City

TANGERANG: The Tangerang city police have questioned 14 people about the fire which burned down a number of stores at the Anyar market and nearby houses in Sukarasa subdistrict Saturday.

Chief detective Comr. Budhi Herdi Sisianto said Monday the afternoon fire was suspected to have started from a gas cylinder explosion. The tank belonged to a resident living behind a store adjacent to the market.

"A National Police forensics team is conducting an investigation at the site this afternoon," he said.

Budhi also said the police had detained six trash collectors for alleged looting the burned stores, but then released them because store owners confirmed the crew was instead hired to retrieve the goods.

At least 70 families lost their homes to the fire which also disrupted commuter train schedules Sunday.

The fire victims are being sheltered at the municipality's sports stadium, inside a government function hall and in makeshift tents. -- JP

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