A raging fire gutted about 23 shacks and left more than 100 people homeless in Diepsloot on Saturday, Johannesburg Emergency Management Services said.
Spokesperson Percy Morokane said the cause of the fire was not known, but it was suspected that illegal connections might be to blame.
”The fire started at approximately 12.30am today [Saturday] and was effectively contained three hours later. It is believed that the inferno was fuelled by strong winds, making extinguishing it a mammoth task. The cause remains unclear but it is thought that illegal connections might have played a role.”
He said firefighters from four fire-stations combined their resources to prevent the fire from spreading.
”It is through this coordinated effort that the fire was
contained,” he said.
He said 80 blankets were distributed to the destitute and alternative accommodation was arranged at the Diepsloot Youth Centre.
”Some of the affected people had already moved in with relatives and friends in the neighbourhood.”
He said relief operations have already been initiated. This includes the provision of rations, clothes and other necessities for small children. – Sapa