A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Friday expressed condolences for the victims of a fire in the city of Taichung in central Taiwan.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made the remarks while also extending sincere sympathy to the families of the victims and those who were injured in the incident.

A large fire broke out on Thursday afternoon at an incomplete warehouse in Taichung, killing nine and injuring eight.