A large-scale fire has engulfed the warehouse of the “Optimal” wet wipes and detergents factory operating in the premises of the former Metallurgical Plant in Elbasan, causing alarming levels of pollution throughout the area. The flames have spread rapidly throughout the building and plumes of smoke have blanketed Elbasan.

After receiving the notification, several vehicles and Fire Service personnel went to the scene, who are engaged in isolating and extinguishing the flames, to prevent their spread to surrounding buildings. Up to this moment, there is no official information about injured people or the causes that led to the fire.

Firefighters are working in difficult conditions to bring the situation under control, while citizens near the area have been advised to avoid unnecessary movement and exposure to thick smoke until the situation normalizes.

The "Optimal" factory is managed by Turkish investor Selim Guleç, while Elbasan Police officers have also arrived at the scene, surrounded the area and are coordinating actions to manage the situation.