Fire leaves 13 families homeless

TWENTY nine people including children were left homeless in Clermont when their shacks burnt to ashes earlier this month.

Five puppies were also burnt to death in the fire.

The shacks caught fire on Sunday, 7 September at 10pm and 13 families were left stranded.

One of the residents, Thokozani Mbitwa said they do not even know where to start seeking help as they have lost everything.

“The only thing we were left with were the clothes that we are wearing.

“We have children, one of them is still an infant. We lost everything, clothes, furniture and our ID’s.

“One girl was transported to hospital after she sprained her ankle, trying to escape from the flames,” said Mbitwa.

Ward 92 councillor, Bongani Mpungose, said some people were moved to the hall.

“There are rumours that the fire was started by a man during a domestic dispute,” he said.

According to the residents, a case was opened but the police have not arrested the perpetrator yet as he has disappeared.

Mpungose added that he has tried to help the families with food parcels.

“We also provided them with food vouchers from SASSA.

“These families really need assistance as most of the people who reside in that area are unemployed.

“Any assistance such as food, clothes, building material will be greatly appreciated,” said Mpungose.

Anyone who would like to assist can contact Mpungose on 072 424 0388.