Twenty-eight people have been killed in a fire at a shoe factory in Jinjiang City, east China's Fujian Province, local authorities confirmed on Thursday. The blaze broke out at around noon (0400 GMT), trapping workers inside the multi-storey building.
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
Firefighters rushed to the scene to rescue those trapped, with some people seen on the rooftop as flames engulfed the structure. State broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) reported that an unknown number of casualties had occurred. President Xi Jinping later issued a directive urging an all-out rescue effort and acknowledging that the fire had caused significant casualties.
According to official reports, the death toll reached 28, with several others injured. The exact number of injured remains unclear as authorities continue to assess the situation.
President Xi's Directive
In his directive, President Xi Jinping emphasized the need for thorough rescue operations and proper handling of the aftermath. He called for efforts to ensure the safety of the remaining trapped individuals and to provide medical care for the injured. The directive suggested that the fire may have led to a heavy loss of life, prompting immediate action from local authorities.
Footage of the Blaze
Videos released by CCTV showed thick black smoke billowing from the factory, with flames visible on multiple floors. Several people were seen on the rooftop, apparently trapped by the fire, as smoke swirled around them. The footage highlighted the severity of the incident and the challenges faced by rescue teams.
An investigation into the cause of the fire has been launched, with authorities looking into safety protocols at the factory. The incident has raised concerns about workplace safety in industrial facilities across the region.
