A recent inquiry commenced into the August fire at a Johannesburg apartment building, claiming 76 lives and exposing dire poverty and neglect in the city.
The blaze, which trapped residents in overcrowded conditions, occurred in one of the so-called “hijacked” buildings, suspected to be illegally controlled by landlords exploiting the housing needs of impoverished locals and migrants.
Testimonies revealed the absence of fire safety measures, including missing extinguishers and blocked emergency exits. The deplorable living conditions, with makeshift partitions and blocked corridors, contributed to the deadly nature of the fire.
Despite the building’s municipal ownership, authorities had neglected its upkeep.
President Cyril Ramaphosa mandated the inquiry to uncover the cause and assign responsibility for the tragic incident, which included a dozen child fatalities.
Over 80 individuals sustained injuries, some while leaping from windows to escape.
Shockingly, 33 victims remain unclaimed in a local morgue, underscoring the aftermath’s enduring emotional toll.