By: Fatou Krubally
The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has denied claims that an electrical spark from its infrastructure was the cause of the fire that broke out at the Sandika market in Serekunda in the early hours of Monday, 31st March.
In response to a statement from the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), attributing the incident to NAWEC’s network, the utility provider clarified that an initial assessment showed no faults or anomalies in the area at the time of the incident.
“Our systems were functioning normally, with no reported power surges or irregularities at 4:00 am when the fire occurred,” NAWEC stated. “Based on available information, the allegation that NAWEC’s infrastructure caused the fire is unfounded.”
The national water and electricity company expressed its willingness to collaborate with KMC to review findings and provide technical insights into the incident, emphasizing that a fact-based approach is essential in determining the true cause and preventing future occurrences.
While acknowledging public concerns, NAWEC urged caution in apportioning blame.
“Attributing the fire to NAWEC without conclusive evidence may cause unnecessary alarm,” the company noted.
In an addendum to its statement, NAWEC further clarified that the specific location where the fire erupted has no NAWEC services.
The incident has left traders at the Serekunda Sandika counting their losses, with several stalls and goods reduced to ashes. Many affected vendors have called for urgent support and preventive measures to ensure the market’s safety in the future.
NAWEC extended its sympathy to those impacted by the fire and wished them well.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with authorities urged to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry to establish the facts surrounding the incident
