An arson case has been opened for investigation after a destructive fire at former KwaZulu-Natal premier Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube’s home in Kloof on Sunday night. 

eThekwini Fire and Emergency Services divisional commander Sibusiso Dlamini said they responded to a residential area in Gillitts on Sunday. 

Dlamini said on arrival, they noticed the entire structure was engulfed in flames. They heard reports that initially a car was on fire inside the garage.

He said the entire structure was compromised. 

“We utilised three streams of fire water lines to combat the fire,” Dlamini said. 

“We were able to contain it in that particular structure, and then subsequently fire was extinguished.” 

Dlamini said that in their investigation, they realised it was a three-garage structure with some attached cottages.

“In our investigation, we realised that it was a three-garage structure with some cottages attached to it at the back. Three cars were in the garage. They were all completely gutted and destroyed. The garage section was also completely gutted,” Dlamini said. 

“The accommodation side of the structure was partially damaged as well. The entire house, slightly detached from the other structure… It was not saved.”

Dlamini said another structure was not compromised. They were able to stop the fire before it could get to that structure.

He said that when battling a fire, it is important for them to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading. 

“Looking at the buildings that were adjacent to the structure, in particular the main building, our concern was to contain the fire, and not to spread.

“To do that and to contain the fire and to put the fire out, and to get it under control, it took us less than 30 minutes.” 

Dlamini said no one was injured. 

“At the time, the cause of the fire was unknown. However, we’re hoping that with further investigation, maybe we will get to know what really caused the fire,” Dlamini said. “As the fire department, we were unable to determine the exact cause last night (Sunday).”

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said: “Police in Hillcrest have opened a case of arson for investigation following an incident in which three vehicles, two motorbikes, and two quad bikes were burned during a fire at a residence.

“It is reported that the owner of the property parked her vehicle inside the garage, but was later alerted of smoke coming out of the garage. The suspects are unknown at this stage, and the motive is being investigated.” 

Meanwhile, ANC KZN spokesperson Fanele Sibisi said the party is shocked and saddened by the fire that engulfed and destroyed the home and vehicles of their deputy provincial coordinator. 

“We are relieved and profoundly grateful that no lives were lost and that Cde Dube-Ncube and her family members escaped physical harm. In the face of this traumatic ordeal, we express our unwavering solidarity and extend heartfelt support to her and her loved ones,” Sibisi said. 

He said the fire left a trail of destruction, severely damaging the family home and personal belongings. 

“The ANC calls for calm and urges members of the public and the media to refrain from speculation, so as to allow law enforcement agencies to conduct their work with the necessary diligence and professionalism,” Sibisi said. 

“We place our full confidence in the police and emergency services to investigate this unfortunate incident thoroughly.”

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za

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