Luthuli House — headquarters of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) — was evacuated on Friday after a man tried to torch the building, the party said.
ANC spokesperson Steyn Speed said that the man entered the door of the building at about 10.30am, poured petrol on the floor and set it alight.
”The fire was extinguished by ANC security personnel, the fire alarm was activated and the building evacuated.
”The individual was apprehended and taken into custody by the Johannesburg metropolitan police,” said Steyn.
No one was hurt in the incident and damage was minimal.
ANC headquarters staff has been instructed to go home so that the fire and smoke damage at the entrance to the building could be cleaned.
”We still do not know why this individual tried to set fire to the building.” said Speed. — Sapa