Family left stranded due to fire
The family of the late human rights activist Saul Mkhize is left to pick up the pieces following a massive fire outbreak at their home in Tsakane.
Tsakane – The family of the late human rights activist Saul Mkhize is left to pick up the pieces following a massive fire outbreak at their home in Malandela Street, Tsakane.
The fire started in the garage while the family was sleeping.
According to 15-year-old Owami Mkhize, he was alerted by the screams of a neighbour waking up other neighbours while screaming “fire”.
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“I wasn’t aware that it is our house which was burning; I thought she was calling for help.
“When I opened the door I realised the house was on fire and there was smoke everywhere.
“I kicked the door and tried to wake everyone in the house up,” says Owami.
He adds that he had to escape through a window to go find help.
“I jumped through the window to go ask for help.”
The aunt was burnt badly on her back while she was trying to save the four girls who were trapped in their bedroom.
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Eight members of the family were at the house when the incident took place, including physically disabled Teyi Nhlapo (79), who is the owner of the house.
Nhlapo, who is residing with her sister and six grandchildren, says the damage could have been minimised.
“My house wouldn’t have burnt to such as extent; our neighbours did their best to assist us.
“The firefighter truck arrived without water, which I don’t understand why,” says Nhlapo.
They still do not know what started the fire, but officials are still investigating.
The family is currently residing with family members.
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