TATAU: A raging blaze tore through Rumah James Talib in Semanok, reducing the 20-door longhouse along Jalan Pesisir Jepak-Kuala Tatau to ashes this morning.
Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported in the 11:40 am incident.
It was reported that several cars and motorcycles were also destroyed in the fire, with the exact number of vehicles still being verified with the owners. The exact number of residents affected in the inferno have yet to be known.
The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) said firefighters from Tatau and Bintulu stations were dispatched to the scene, about 29 kilometres away, following a distress call.
Upon arrival, towering flames had already engulfed the 400-by-80-foot wooden structure – a non-permanent longhouse that stood no chance against the blaze.
Firefighters performed the extinguishing deed using water sourced from a nearby drain.
The flames were brought under control at 12:26 pm, followed by overhaul works to extinguish the remnants of the blaze.
The cause of the fire and losses incurred is still under investigation.
Handout photos show firefighters working hard to extinguish the blaze that destroyed the 20-door longhouse and several cars as well as motorcycles.
