Owner blames fire on power cuts

 A PART of Goroka town’s central business area was razed to the ground early on Saturday.
Eight companies lost property and goods in a fire that is believed to have been sparked by frequent power blackouts.
The fire destroyed the Chemica agriculture store, Chemica Hardware, BMK kai bar, City Pharmacy, Highlands Pharmacy, Zebb stationery, used clothing outlet Labels and another fast food outlet.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage, with investigations complicated by people looting the area.
It is believed a substantial amount of money in the shops was burnt. A shop owner who did not want to be named said they would take the matter up with PNG Power Ltd because of the frequent power outages.
The shop owner claimed the frequent power outages had caused the fire. He blamed police for not protecting the area so a proper investigation could  be carried out.
Firemen, who ran out of water shortly after arrival, were unable to save an adjoining buildings.
A security guard said the fire started from the BMK fast food outlet.