Fifteen people injured after fire rips through building in Yangon, Myanmar
Fifteen people injured after fire rips through building in Yangon, Myanmar

Fifteen injured residents were rushed to hospital this morning (February 20) after a fire ripped through a building in Yangon, Myanmar.

Flames broke out at a market in the China Town area of Yangon at around 6.30 a.m.

Local time.

Dozens of firefighters raced to the scene and rescued those from the second and third floors above the inferno below.

At least 85 people, including elderly residents and pets, were evacuated from rooms. Many were also trapped on stairs.

Firemen said the oldest person injured was a 92-year-old man but he is now in good health after being taken to hospital.

The Myanmar Fire Services Department said the shops on the third floor had been all damaged and fatalities were not reported.

The inferno was finally extinguished after three hours.

A statement from the service said: ''The fire broke out in a ten-storey build.

The oldest person in the building was U Shwe Myint, 92, but he was safely taken to hospital and is now in good health.

''Two children also suffered smoke inhalation and were taken to Rangoon General Hospital.'' Police are now investigating the cause of the fire.