At least six dead in Pta fire
2008-07-22 17:18
Verashni Pillay and Sapa
Pretoria - Emergency workers with rescue dogs are searching the Pretoria high-rise where a fire broke out, killing at least six people.
Police said on Tuesday two jumped from the building, three burnt to death. The cause of other death is unknown.
"We're still searching the place," Superintendent Eugene Opperman told News24.
The fire in the 32-storey block of flats in central Pretoria began at about 11:00 on Tuesday.
Residents were forced to the roof where several helicopters airlifted 13 people to safety while firefighters battled the blaze. The fire, which had started mainly in the rubbish chute of the building, had been extinguished just after 12:00.
Smoke pours out of building
Police said the fire began on the 20th floor but were unable to confirm how seriously the 12 floors above were damaged.
Photos showed smoke pouring out of the upper floors of the building while police and Air Force rescued people.
Opperman denied reports that the fire was started by residents of Kruger Park after the Red Ants security guards began evicting their neighbours in Schubart Park block.
"There is no indication of residents starting it," he said.
The number of injured people was yet to be determined. Several were hospitalised and treated for smoke inhalation according to paramedics.
Heroic efforts
Meanwhile, the divisional commissioner of visible policing Arno Lamoer has expressed appreciation of the "heroic efforts" of the police Air Wing, Sapa reported.
"I would like to personally thank members of the SAPS Air Wing for their heroic and selfless efforts.
"I have no doubt that our pilots and crew can be counted as among the best in any police service in the world and I have every confidence that they will continue rendering a professional airborne law enforcement service to the people of South Africa," said Lamoer.
He also commended other police and emergency services personnel for their efforts.
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Perumal Naidoo had also expressed his "absolute admiration" for all those involved in the rescue operation, said Opperman.
"... and especially to the pilots of the SANDF and SAPS who time and again took people off the roof of the burning building. Everyone is rather proud."
Sapa also said that no alternative accommodation had been considered for the residents at this stage as it was not deemed necessary by police.
- News24