20 green container shacks destroyed in Bremer Street informal settlement fire
On the scene, firefighters found 25 single-unit green container shacks, typically used as makeshift homes, engulfed by the flames.
More than 20 shacks were destroyed in a fire in the Bremer Street ‘green container’ informal settlement on Tuesday afternoon.
Scores of residents could do little but watch as their homes and possessions were consumed by the flames.
It is believed that the fire started in one of the shacks and quickly spread to neighbouring shacks.
Tshwane emergency services deputy chief and acting spokesperson Peter Matolla said the fire was reported at 12:39 and a fire engine was immediately dispatched.
Matolla said when firefighters arrived, 25 shacks were on fire.
He said the shacks were made from corrugated metal and wood, and the fire had quickly spread from one to the next.
“The team managed to extinguish the fire but unfortunately 20 shacks were completely burned down,” he said.
He added that the swift action of the firefighters was critical to preventing the fire from spreading further and causing even more damage.
Matolla said it was not yet determined how the fire started.
“The cause of the fire is under investigation.”
He said no injury was reported.
The Hercules CPF thanked the emergency services, security services and all other role players who assisted during this incident.
*Please note this article has been amended
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
