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"A large incendiary fire" destroyed much of Port-au-Prince's main public market, Marche du Port, affecting hundreds of stalls and two surrounding blocks. UN Blue Helmets (MINUSTAH) were notably absent. Firefighters had inadequate resources, and shopkeepers rushed to save what they could.
One seller, Pierre Elian, said:
"The front of the market place is already burned down. We don't know if the area where we kept our merchandise is also burning, because they won't let us go near it."
Merchants blamed Preval-controlled instigators, saying "recognized gang members were seen pouring gasoline over material to" ignite the blaze - as "political pressure against the poor" who need the food and merchandise to survive.
Patrick Servius, who lost his clothing business, said:
"Preval is angry with us for our refusal to sell relief supplies in our places. These are (donated goods) for the earthquake victims, not for Preval's profits. Now we pay for our patriotism."
They'll soon know what else Preval has in mind. More on that below.
The Next Shoe to Drop - Forced Relocations
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