SRINAGAR: Shopkeepers have alleged a conspiracy to evict Batmaloo complex shopkeepers, citing CCTV footage as evidence after masked men set fire to six shops in Srinagar.
According to the shopkeepers, the incident occurred on Monday night when masked men arrived with petrol cans and set fire to the shops, reducing them to ashes. This act of arson damaged six shops, they said.
“How can such an incident occur in Srinagar? This raises questions about our security. We are requesting the authorities to investigate the matter and take appropriate action,” the shopkeepers stated. “We have also met with police officials, and they have assured us that a thorough probe will be conducted. A formal FIR has also been filed in this matter at the local police station.”
The shopkeepers are confident about identifying the masked culprits, as they have obtained crucial evidence from CCTV footage, which they have also submitted to the police station.
In response to the incident, an official from the Fire and Emergency Department informed KNO that they received a fire call at 3:44 am, reporting a fire at a three-story commercial building in Batamaloo.
“Upon arrival, a firefighting operation was initiated, and thanks to the diligent efforts of the firefighters, the fire was quickly brought under control. Fortunately, there were no reports of loss of life or casualties in this incident,” the F&ES official added. (KNO)
