Johannesburg, South Africa – A devastating fire engulfed a five-story building in central Johannesburg, resulting in the loss of at least 73 lives and leaving dozens injured. The incident unfolded in a building that had been repurposed to accommodate numerous informal settlements, known locally as “hijacked” buildings. The inferno, one of the worst fire incidents in recent Johannesburg history, has raised concerns that the death toll may continue to rise.
The blaze was reported around 1:30 a.m. local time, catching many occupants asleep. Among the casualties are seven children, including an 18-month-old baby, according to Robert Mulaudzi, spokesperson for Johannesburg’s Emergency Management Services (EMS). Over 50 individuals were injured and have been receiving medical treatment.
Firefighters worked diligently to extinguish the blaze and conduct preliminary investigations into its cause. While the exact origin of the fire remains unknown, there are no indications of deliberate intent at this time.
The building, previously declared unsafe for habitation, had fallen under the control of property gangs that rented out rooms to numerous occupants, often lacking basic amenities like running water. Illegal electricity connections were rampant, posing a severe fire hazard. Each floor of the building resembled an informal settlement, with makeshift partitions resembling shacks.
The tragedy sheds light on the persistent issue of “hijacked” buildings in South Africa, where abandoned properties are commandeered by gangs or groups and rented to migrants and locals with limited housing options. These makeshift living conditions often fail to meet safety regulations, prompting concerns and criticism from the public.
Mgcini Tshwaku, a member of Johannesburg city’s mayoral committee, suggested that candles used for lighting inside the building might have played a role in the fire’s outbreak. The building’s main security gate was found to be closed, further complicating the evacuation process.
Residents reported harrowing scenes of people jumping from windows in desperate attempts to escape the rapidly spreading flames. It was particularly challenging for those on the upper floors to flee the building.
The tragic incident occurred in Johannesburg’s central business district, an area now home to numerous refugees and migrants from African countries. Authorities are working diligently to identify the victims and provide support to those affected by this devastating fire.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the need for improved regulations and safety measures in informal settlements and “hijacked” buildings throughout South Africa. Efforts to address this issue have been ongoing, but the tragic loss of life underscores the urgency of the matter.
