Arson suspected in confectionery fire

The façade of a confectionery in Gżira was extensively damaged by fire in the early hours of yesterday morning in what police believe was arson.

The police said they were informed of a fire in Turu Colombo Square at about 12.30 a.m. and sent the district police and mobile squad to the scene.

By the time they arrived the flames had engulfed the door and began snaking along the overhanging canopy.

The fire was put out by the police, who always keep a fire extinguisher in their vehicles.

A Civil Protection Department spokesman said that, although two fire engines were sent to the scene, they found the flames had already been put out.

A tyre was used to start the fire. The incident is being investigated by the Criminal Investigation Department and district police.