TAWAU, June 29 ― A fire destroyed about 100 squatter houses and 50 shophouses early today in Jalan Masjid Raya, Kampung Pangkalan, Kunak, near here, according to the Kunak Fire and Rescue Service.

Its chief, Jaafar Salleh, said no one was injured in the fire.

He said the service was summoned at 1.48 am and eight firemen were rushed there in two trucks.

"We were also assisted by six firemen from the Tawau fire station," he said, adding that the fire was brought under control at 5.20 am and the whole operation was completed by 8 am.

Jaafar said the close proximity of the houses and a strong wind prevented the firemen from extinguishing the fire quickly.  

The cause of the fire and damage has yet to be ascertained, he said.  ― Bernama