A massive fire engulfed the central vegetable market in Ataq, Shabwa province, causing significant damage to the commercial hub. Eyewitnesses report that community members tried to contain the blaze in the absence of fire department assistance.
Although there were no human casualties, the fire resulted in severe material losses, sparking speculation that it was intentionally started to benefit a close associate of the governor aligned with the Saudi-led coalition. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of such vital marketplaces.
This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the importance of proper fire safety measures and emergency response mechanisms in safeguarding public spaces and preventing avoidable disasters.
YPA