Several shops at Kotuwegoda in Matara were gutted due to a fire that broke out this afternoon, Police said.

They said the fire began at around 6.50pm at a fishing equipment shop.

Fire brigade teams from Matara and Tangalle has been deployed to douse the fire.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined and no injuries were reported, police said.

The fire has not yet been completely extinguished.