A fire that caused damage of about R1m to a shopping complex in Mthata has been extinguished, Eastern Cape police said on Sunday.

Superintendent Mzikisi Fatyela said a fire at Multi Save Super store started on Saturday around 5pm and it was extinguished around 8pm by staff from four firefighting stations.

"We don't know what caused the fire. We are still waiting for experts to examine the scene", said Fatyela.

No one was injured and a case of arson was opened.

In another incident, a 27-year-old man was arrested in Bizana after he was found in possession of an unlicenced firearm.

The man was arrested on Saturday during a crime prevention operation in Mthethwa.

"He was found in possession of a 9mm gun that was loaded with ammunition", said Fatyela

The man was charged with possession of an unlicenced firearm and was expected to appear before the Bizana Magistrate's Court on Monday.

Source: Sapa