The Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service have today been dealing with a fire call within a tunnel behind the old incinerator. After several attempts to gain access to the affected areas within the tunnel, crews have had to retreat due to the intense heat and instability of internal tunnel structures.

Firefighters continue to deal with the incident whilst working in zero visibility and extremely challenging conditions, with a few near misses in the process whereby rocks have dropped around officers. The cause of the fire remains unclear, but the emanating smoke plume indicates high toxicity, which is hampering operations due to its density.

The GFRS remain on scene monitoring progress and will determine when it is possible for crews to reattempt an offensive. 20 Fire Officers have been involved up to now with a staged recall established for support and continuity purposes.

ENDS