A potential disaster was narrowly avoided at Chilli Lane Shopping Centre in Sunninghill on April 6 after a fire broke out at Moja Café.

According to the City of Johannesburg’s emergency management services (EMS), the incident was reported to its command and control centre at approximately 12:14, prompting an immediate response from firefighting teams.

EMS spokesperson Kagiso Phasha said, upon arrival, firefighters discovered the fire had started on a stove and spread to the chimney. “The fire was contained to the kitchen section, affecting only the stove and chimney.

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“The incident was swiftly brought under control, preventing further spread to other parts of the establishment and surrounding businesses.”

Phasha said no injuries or casualties were reported. He added that the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Phasha advises business owners to prioritise safety measures.

“EMS urges business owners, especially in the food and hospitality sector, to ensure regular cleaning and maintenance of stoves, extraction systems, and chimneys to reduce the risk of fire.”

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