VANDERBIJLPARK – A shocking discovery was made following the fire that tore through several stores in the Vanderbijlpark Civic Centre on Monday, January 6.

Despite the devastating scenes of raging flames ripping through popular stores, what happened after was nothing short of a film as authorities unearthed a charred body in the rubble.

This comes after firefighters, local police, security, and emergency personnel battled for hours to put out the flames.

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According to sources close to the investigation, the body (burnt beyond recognition) is believed to be linked to alleged thieves who may have been trapped in the fire following a botched escape.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, the Sedibeng District police spokesperson, Captain Teboho Lephoto, said an inquest docket has been opened.

“Our officers responded to a call and on arrival, they were informed by security personnel that there might be individuals trapped inside the burning building.

A search was later conducted, leading to the discovery of charred human remains. The motive behind the incident is still unclear, and investigations are ongoing,” he said.

Lephoto said the Vanderbijlpark SAPS is appealing to anyone who might have any information relating to the incident to come forward.

While the costs for the damages done to different stores remain unknown, several employees and businesses are left picking up the pieces as a cleanup is underway.