MEC Mokoena to visit Sasolburg following the death of two people at Boiketlong flats

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Free State Cooperative Governance, Traditional Affairs and Human Settlements (Cogta) MEC Saki Mokoena is expected to undertake a visit to Sasolburg on Monday.

This comes after two people died and three others hospitalised after a block of Boiketlong flats in Zamdela caught fire over the weekend. 

According to a statement from the police, the flats were not used for residential purposes but were occupied illegally without the owner’s permission.

MEC Mokoena has called on the speedy intervention of all relevant stakeholders to respond to the immediate needs of those who have been left displaced as a result of the fire.

“The local municipality, Metsimaholo, and various NGOs have been on the ground since the incident took place over the weekend and helped where required.

“The social development department has also been activated to offer psycho-social support to those affected,” he said.

Mokoena added that the district joint operations committee with disaster management unit and SAPS have been activated to coordinate a response to this disaster. 

Meanwhile, Metsimaholo municipal mayor, Jack Malindi commended the bravery and quick response of the police and the emergency services personnel who worked tirelessly to control the fire and assist those in need. 

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He also highlighted community’s resilience and solidarity in the face of the disaster. 

The mayor further committed to supporting all affected individuals and in rebuilding what has been lost.