THE Kruger National Park has appealed to anyone with information about the cause of the devastating fire that killed 23 people three weeks ago to contact investigators. A commission of inquiry into the tragedy will soon be established, said Kruger director David Mabunda, on Tuesday. Those with information could then make submissions to the commission, which will be presided over by a magistrate. Mabunda called for an end to general speculations about the cause of fire, saying they only served to cause more anguish for the bereaved families. The fire started on September 4, destroying 60_000 hectares of land over two days and killing 19 women from neighbouring villages who were contracted to cut grass near Pretoriuskop rest camp and four park officials who tried to rescue them. A mass funeral was held in Skukuza for 22 of the victims on September 15, while one ranger was buried in Punda Maria. Police are investigating links between the fire and poisoning of two women and theft of R140 000 at Pretoriuskop camp, which is in the south of the Kruger Park. – African Eye News Service
Tuesday September 25, 2001