Massive fire raging at Portland business complex

A massive fire is now raging at a commercial complex on West Street in Port Antonio, Portland.

Two business establishments – a restaurant and a supermarket – are on fire.

Meanwhile, a variety store, a tyre shop and a jewellery store are under serious threat.

It is reported that the fire started about 2:30 a.m on the top floor of the two-storey building.

Firefighters have been having it difficult battling the blaze with only two units and a lack of piped water in Port Antonio, because of lock-offs to facilitate the pipe-laying activities.

At one stage firefighters were heard arguing over where the efforts should be concentrated to put out the blaze.

The owners of several of the affected shops have also been expressing anger over the approach being taken by the firefighters.