Gauteng MEC condemns arson attack on Orange Farm convenience store
Gauteng MEC for Economic Development Lebogang Maile, who visited an Orange Farm convenience store that was gutted by flames last week, has reacted strongly to the arson attack.
Lamani’s recently revamped store was set on fire just three months after opening an improved version, which included a grocery store.
He revealed that this has resulted in death threats, with a call from an unknown person telling him to stop trading as he was ‘taking bread from his bosses’, shortly after opening his convenience store in June.
The attack, reportedly linked to a string of death threats Lamani allegedly received following the store’s reopening, has ignited outrage within the community, sparking a broader conversation about safety and support for local businesses.
On Sunday, Maile expressed his concern and support during his visit to the store, emphasising the need for swift action from law enforcement, who have confirmed that they are still investigating the arson attack which took place last Monday night.
“We condemn in the strongest terms these acts of hooliganism and call on law enforcement officials to bring the perpetrators to book,” said Maile. He elaborated on the significance of Lamani’s store to the community and highlighted that Lamani had previously secured financial backing from the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller, receiving a loan of over R570,000 to enhance his business operations.
The attack has also sparked fury among the community following the discovery of a body said to be that of a 33-year-old spaza shop owner in the area.
“The South African Police Service confirms that a murder case has been opened following the discovery of a 33-year-old man’s body in Extension 4, Orange Farm, on 21 August 2025. The investigation is currently underway, and no arrests have been made yet,” said Captain Tintswalo Sibeko.
Maile condemned the arson, saying it was a blow to the township economy, which needs more people like Lamani who contribute to the economy of the province.
“This is a huge blow to the township economy in Gauteng because Xolani is one of the successful proper entrepreneurs. These are the people that we always talk about. We need people like him who are always ready to dirty their hands and are prepared to build businesses from scratch,” he said.
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za