Investigators have said that last week's fire at the Hira Street shopping market in north Jeddah was started deliberately and theft related. Head investigator from Civil Defense Muhammad Al-Ghamdi said that the safe at the site had been broken into and its contents removed. “The theft appears to have occurred before the outbreak of the fire,” Al-Ghamdi said. “There were also traces of inflammable liquid found around the site, giving extra credence to a hypothesis of arson.” The investigation report said that the location had the correct supply of fire and safety equipment available but the rapid spread of the blaze prevented it being used. “All stores and markets in Jeddah are required to comply with strict health and safety standards,” said Al
