GAUTENG.- Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment’s Working on Fire programme lends hand in the clean-up and mop up operation in Soweto after the violent riots and looting occurred recently.

The Carletonville and Suikerbosrand teams composed of 45 firefighters are deployed at Diepkloof Square Mall. The teams of firefighters are led by Working on Fire programme’s Managing Director Trevor Abrahams. A firefighter from Carletonville team Siphokazi Mboyiya said her task is to help in the cleaning of the destroyed shopping mall. She said she was ready and committed to help clean as she marks the Mandela month.

‘‘We need to protect our livelihoods and economy. That is why I voluntarily came to assist here, far away from area. As a nation we depend on the services of the businesses and therefore it important to assist them during difficult times. We refused to be part of criminality and thuggery,’’ she said.

Mboyiya said she is glad that she can lend a hand to restore the cleanliness of the township.

A crew leader for Suikerbosrand team, Tankiso Motloung said that the team will assist with the clean-up and show support to community, government and business.

‘‘I was deeply saddened to witness the violence near my area. I come from Vaal Marina. We are glad and grateful that is behind us now and we are here to clean,’’ said the enthusiastic Motloung.

General Manager Stephen Boyes said teams may be deployed to other parts of the province in the days to come where they called in to assist.

‘‘Occupational health and safety of our firefighter is always my number one concern and priority. We urged teams our firefighters to observe COVID -19 protocols at all times,’’ said Boyes.