The Federal Fire Service (FFS) on Thursday, swiftly responded to a fire incident that broke out at a two-storey commercial building in Utako, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, following an emergency call from a concerned resident.

Upon arrival, firefighters found the structure heavily engulfed in flames and immediately launched a coordinated firefighting operation, successfully bringing the situation under control within a short period.

Six male victims, aged between 25 and 57, sustained varying degrees of burns and injuries. They were promptly rescued and evacuated to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention.

In a dramatic incident during the rescue, a baby was reportedly thrown from a balcony and narrowly caught by bystanders below. The Federal Fire Service strongly warns the public against such dangerous actions during emergencies, as they could easily result in fatalities.

Preliminary assessment places the estimated property loss at approximately ₦45 million, while the timely intervention of firefighters saved assets worth an estimated ₦705 million.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation as experts work to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the outbreak.

The Federal Fire Service urges members of the public to remain calm during emergencies, report fire incidents promptly through official emergency lines, and always adhere to basic fire safety precautions to prevent avoidable losses of lives and property.

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