Twenty motorcycles and a car were razed in a pre-dawn fire at the Taman Sri Pinang flats, Penang, believed to be the work of arsonists.

Jalan Perak Fire and Rescue Department operations chief Hamdan Harun said the 1.50am incident was spotted by a resident who alerted the Fire and Rescue Department.

"We received a call from a resident and when we arrived, the fire had already razed 20 motorcycles and car, parked in the area," he told reporters.

He added that firemen managed to prevent the fire from spreading to other vehicles parked nearby.

"We are still investigating the cause of the fire and estimated losses to property," he said.

Black area

    

Meanwhile, Kampung Taman Seri Pinang, Village Security Committee (JKK) chair Mohd Ishak Baba said the housing area was considered a 'black area' because it has become a place for youngsters to gather.

"The area is prone for robberies and vandalism although JKK had placed security guards at every block," said a disappointed Ishak.

Penang police chief Ayub Yaakob said a team had been set up to investigate the incident.

"We have not ruled out arson for the fire but we will carry out a thorough investigation to determine the reason for such an act," he said.

- Bernama