City Firefighters attacked whilst on duty on Saturday

City of Cape Town Firefighters were targeted on Saturday, while trying to extinguish a fire at the Bonny Town Informal Settlement in Wynberg.

Fire crews responded to a call of structures alight, just after 2a.m. According to Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, the first responders quickly set to work to contain the fire, but some community members started interfering with the crews, dispossessing them of their equipment and verbally assaulting staff.

One officer was hit with an object from behind during a scuffle that followed.

‘We’ve been reminded in recent days of how devastating fires can be and the importance of rescue services in this regard. It therefore makes absolutely no sense that anyone would want to hinder a firefighter in the execution of their duties, while trying to save lives and property. This type of behaviour is becoming increasingly common, and can simply not be tolerated,’ said Smith.

 

Done By: Mitchum George