A fire that broke out last night at Shoprite Outapi Town Square was still burning this morning. 

The cause of the fire is unknown.

Eyewitnesses said the fire started around 21:00 from inside the store. 

Omusati Police commander, Commissioner Ismael Basson, said operations at other shops in the complex were also affected by the smoke. 

Police were on hand throughout, holding back a large group of people who allegedly wanted to ransack the damaged store.

"We are still busy to make sure that the fire is totally out. We have had a big crowd of people since last night; they actually wanted to storm the building, but from the police side, we managed to control them. As you can still see, they are still here trying to get an opportunity, probably yes."

Outapi Town Council Chief Executive Officer Nashilongo Ananias suggested the town council is more than ready to deal with such incidents.