A devastating fire broke out on Lumley Street in Central Freetown during the afternoon hours of Saturday, August 9, 2025, engulfing the top apartment of a three-storey building.

The incident has sparked public outrage, as the affected area is a congested business setting. Business owners were seen fleeing the area with their goods amid the chaos.

In response to urgent public calls, the National Fire Force swiftly arrived at the scene with three tankers and is currently battling the blaze to prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings.

As of the time of reporting, no casualties have been reported. However, observers have expressed concern over valuable properties that they believe have been reduced to ashes.

The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed. More information will be provided as the situation unfolds.