Fire has swept through Muchinshi Market in Chingola leaving 15 Shops gutted and goods worth thousands of Kwacha destroyed.
Chingola Constituency Member of Parliament, Chipoka Mulenga says the fire which is still under investigation is suspected to have originated from illicit fuel dealers operating in close proximity to the affected shops.
He has highlighed that Chingola Municipal Council fire fighters quenched the fire and saved approximately 20 other shops from the inferno.
Mr Mulenga has appealed to members of the community to join hands in preventing exposure to such destructive occurrences.
He stressed the importance of collective action in safeguarding local businesses and the livelihoods of traders and their families.
Mr Mulenga added that 20 pockets of Cement will be given to the affected traders as part of the support.
Meanwhile Chingola Mayor, Johnson Kangombe has emphasized that anyone seen trading in illicit fuel must be reported to the relevant authorities.
He has underscored the need for community vigilance in tackling illegal activities that pose risks to public safety and property.
And the affected traders who spoke to RISE FM NEWS in an interview have appealed to Government to come to their aid.
BY GLORIA SHAWARISE FM