Cape Times reports that firefighters trying to extinguish a blaze in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain, on Sunday night were met by a hostile crowd, which allegedly verbally abused and intimidated them.
City Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson Jermaine Carelse said the team responded to reports of a house and four informal structures burning in Megan Street. “The first arriving fire crew were confronted by an extremely hostile crowd. The army and SAPS, who were already on the scene, left the area as firefighters battled the fire. Residents were swearing and banging on cars,” Carelse indicated. Ward councillor Washiela Harris said that according to residents firefighters arrived late at the scene, but “residents assisted them in extinguishing the fire. The residents are not aware of any hostile behaviour displayed during the extinguishing of the fire.” The fire was extinguished by 11pm. No injuries were reported and the cause of the blaze is unknown. No foul play is suspected.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Odwa Mkentane at Cape Times
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