Fifteen (15) vendors and business operators are reeling from losses, following a fire which destroyed their shops at Cumberland Avenue in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, early this morning.

The fire reportedly began sometime between 3 and 4:30 am.

President of the St. Catherine Chamber of Commerce, Dennis Robotham told Irie FM News that his business was also affected, but not significantly.

Noting that there was a fire at the Linstead Market in the parish last week, which was reportedly set by arsonists, Mr. Robotham said the livelihoods of many people are being affected by such criminal acts.

While the cause of this morning’s fire has not been confirmed, Mr. Robotham said business operators must work together and with the police to ward off criminals.