More than 700 people displaced as fire rips through an informal settlement in Dunoon

More than 700 people are displaced after a fire ripped through an informal assessment in Dunoon on Saturday.

PHOTO: COCT

This number could sadly rise, as disaster risk management officials are expected to continue with assessments and registrations on Monday.

The City of Cape Town’s Fire & Rescue Service spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, said the fire at Ethembeni informal settlement broke out at around 05:30 on Saturday

‘’Due to the extent of the incident a total of 14 firefighting resources were on scene with over 50 staff battling the blaze. At around 09:45 the fire was contained and crews had to contend with some members of the community who interfered with their duties.’’

‘’Law Enforcement and Metro Police assisted… A man sustained burn wounds and was treated and transported to a nearby medical facility,’’ added Carelse.

Authorities are ascertaining the cause of the blaze.

COURTESY: COCT

Giving an update on Monday morning, the City of Cape Town said 258 informal structures had been destroyed in the fire and seven formal housing structures had been damaged

‘’Some of the affected persons are staying with friends and/or relatives, while others will be accommodated at emergency shelters. Gift of the Givers are on site to assist with humanitarian relief. The City also alerted SASSA, as the agency responsible for providing humanitarian relief,’’ said Sonica Lategan, City of Cape Town Disaster Risk Management spokesperson.

 

Done By: Mitchum George