Mom and 2 kids killed in fire

A STRAND mom and her two children were killed in a fire in Nomzamo on Friday.

City Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson Jermaine Carelse said responders received an emergency call at 11.20pm about an informal structure alight in Nombula Street, Strand.

“When the fire crews arrived on the scene they were notified that the occupants of the structure were unaccounted for.

“While they were clearing the debris the bodies of a woman aged 22, a boy, 6, and a girl, 2, were discovered. The fire was extinguished at 12.10am and the scene was handed over to the SAPS,” said Carelse.

Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said they were still investigating the circumstances of the fire.

“Our crime scene experts are still working around the clock looking for clues to solve an inquest docket opened following the death of a 22-year-old mother and her two children, a girl and a boy, at Nombula street in Asanda Village,” said Van Wyk.

Ward councillor Sitembile Mfecane said fires in informal settlements were on the rise.

“It’s a devastating situation. I have supported the family of the deceased with material in rebuilding their informal structure and we will continue to do so.

“The burning of informal structures is a problem in this area and people don’t seem to take this seriously, yet almost every month we lose a community member in a fire,” said Mfecane.

Anyone with information regarding the incident can contact investigating officer Detective-Sergeant Bongekile Ntsontso on 082 522 1208 or 021 845 2060, anonymously contact Crime Stop on 0860 010 111 or SMS Crime Line on 32211.