VANDERBIJLPARK – Several business owners are sitting with their hands in their hair after a fire on January 6 caused major damage to several businesses in the CBD.

It is suspected that the fire started after a failed burglary at one of the businesses.

The clothing chain store PEP as well as Fashion World completely burned down. Other businesses such as White House and Chicken Licken were also badly damaged.

The windows at Capitec Bank were also broken. It is unclear whether this was done by the fire brigade or the alleged robbers.

It is speculated that the robber(s) started the fire to distract security personnel from their escape.

According to Captain Teboho Lephoto, spokesperson for the police, a charred body was found in one of the burned-down businesses. It is suspected to be one of the burglars. The matter is being investigated.