In a renewed effort to ensure no one was left behind, South African firefighters have re-entered the Johannesburg building that was devastated by a fire on Thursday. The blaze, which engulfed the overcrowded and condemned five-storey building, tragically claimed the lives of 74 individuals, including 12 children.
The fire service, determined to leave no stone unturned, conducted a thorough search of the premises. Their primary objective was to ascertain that no additional victims remained inside the charred remains of the building. While the cause of the fire is still unknown, forensic investigators are meticulously examining the scene to gather evidence.
Authorities have urged relatives who suspect their loved ones may have been among the victims to visit the mortuary, where efforts are being made to identify the bodies. This process will help bring closure to grieving families and provide them with the necessary support during this difficult time.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who visited the scene in central Johannesburg on Thursday evening, described the tragedy as a “wake-up call” to address the housing situation in the inner city. The building, which was previously a shelter for abused women and children, had been “hijacked” after the lease expired, according to President Ramaphosa. Many properties in the vicinity of the fire have been deemed uninhabitable. These neglected structures, abandoned by their owners or city authorities, have become occupied by families, including undocumented migrants, predominantly from other African countries.
The Johannesburg fire highlights the urgent need for comprehensive action to address housing challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of finding sustainable solutions to provide adequate housing for vulnerable communities, preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future.