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Sunday, August 25, 2002
Arson ruled out in Fitmart fire
By Danilo A. Reyes
THE fire at the Fitmart Superstore was not deliberately set as it originated from some combustible stocks, according to the an investigator of the Bureau of Fire Protection.
FO3 Romeo Pantoja said the heat coming from one of the refrigerators placed beside the stock of brooms, rugs and doormats at the grocery triggered the fire.
"The refrigerator, which continued heating the above combustible materials was the source and cause of fire," Pantoja said.
At the same time, acting city police director Sr. Supt. Jorge Aquisap said the fire could have been prevented had Fitmart detailed guards inside the store.
"This (providing guards) security measure is effective deterrent against fire even in the case of arson," Aquisap said in his report.
The BFP's report, which was submitted to Acting General Santos Mayor Florentina Congson, finally ended speculation that the fire could be the handiwork of terrorists.
Earlier, the Abu Sayyaf Group claimed the fire incident that hit Kimball Plaza and KCC Mall of Gensan last March and April this year respectively.
Congson told Sun.Star General Santos Thursday that the reports made by police and fire investigators could help clarify issues on Fitmart fire.
Congson, however, said Fitmart owners have yet to execute an affidavit supposedly claiming that they have not received any threats or extortion.
Once it is executed, the City Engineer's Office (CEO), (South Cotabato Telephone Company (Socoteco) and BFP would evaluate whether Fitmart could already reopen for business. |
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