A motorcycle repair shop located near the Mattegoda Housing Scheme was completely destroyed in a sudden fire that broke out this afternoon (23), causing property damage estimated at more than Rs. 10 million.
Mattegoda Police said that the fire erupted when an attempt was made to detach the fuel tank of a motorcycle brought in the shop for repairs.
Reacting swiftly, the shop owner dropped the fuel tank and rushed out of the garage, thereby escaping unharmed.
Preliminary police investigations have revealed that the fuel tank, which had caught fire, subsequently exploded as the owner exited the premises, causing the fire to spread rapidly.
No injuries or fatalities were reported in the incident. However, 10 motorcycles, an electric generator and a large quantity of equipment used for repair work, among other property worth more than Rs. 10 million, were completely destroyed in the fire.
Following the incident, officers including the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Mattegoda Police Station, with the assistance of residents in the area, promptly took measures to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby shops.
Two fire engines from the Kotte Fire Department were subsequently deployed to the scene, and the fire was completely extinguished, officials said.
Mattegoda Police are conducting further investigations into the incident.
