A screenshot of the video that went viral showing the fire in Air Itam, Penang.
A DRAMATIC blaze in Air Itam, Penang, has gained widespread attention after images and videos of the incident circulated on social media.
The fire reportedly engulfed a furniture storage warehouse.
Did this destructive fire truly happen as reported?
Verdict:
TRUE
A furniture storage warehouse was destroyed in a fire in Air Itam, George Town, Penang, on Tuesday (Feb 11).
Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident, though images and videos quickly went viral on social media.
Penang Fire and Rescue Department director Mohd Shoki Hamzah stated that they received an emergency call about the fire at 6.02pm, after which the first fire engine from the Fire and Rescue Station was dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, the fire involved a warehouse made of wood and zinc, covering an area of 929 square metres. Intense firefighting efforts were underway.
"The fire spread rapidly due to the structure of the warehouse, and it took the fire department approximately 30 minutes to control the blaze from spreading further," he said, adding that assistance came from BBP Jalan Perak, Balik Pulau, and Perai.
He also noted that the operation received support from the Volunteer Fire Brigade, and the cause of the fire and the total losses are still under investigation. Bernama
