A devastating fire broke out at a hypermarket in the eastern Iraqi city of Al-Qut, resulting in the death of at least 69 people, with more than 11 others reported missing, according to officials. The information was provided by the city authorities and police officials in a report by Reuters on Thursday.
The fire, which occurred during the night, caused extensive damage to the Korinish Hypermarket building. A video of the incident shows the exterior of the market engulfed in flames, turned black from the blaze. Emergency responders and security forces are present at the scene, working to control the fire and assist those trapped.
Verified footage from Reuters shows firefighters working tirelessly through the night, spraying water to contain the blaze. Rescue teams are seen helping people who were trapped on the roof to evacuate safely.
Ali Al-Mayah, a government official in Al-Qut, told Reuters that many bodies are still believed to be trapped beneath the rubble of the destroyed market. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
The governor of the province announced that an investigation has been launched into the incident. The preliminary findings are expected to be released within the next 48 hours, according to the state news agency INA.
Authorities have also filed charges against the building owner and shopping mall management.
In Iraq, frequent fires in public spaces are often linked to inadequate safety measures. In 2023, a tragic fire at a wedding in a northern Iraqi city claimed over a hundred lives, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the country.
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