[ad_1]
A devastating fire that destroyed more than 1,000 structures in the informal settlement of Masiphumelele in Cape Town was likely caused by an “attempted land invasion.”
This is according to Mayor Dan Plato in a press release published Monday night.
“Disaster management officials have announced that this fire was likely caused by an attempted land invasion. It is shameful that a humanitarian disaster, which caused the total loss of people’s homes and belongings, was caused by criminal elements. Due to this criminality, thousands will now spend their Christmas having to rebuild their structures, ”he said.
The fire ripped through the area Thursday, leaving thousands of people homeless.
City officials visited the area over the weekend. After the visit, a request was made to the national government for 18 million rand in disaster relief funds. The request, according to the city of Cape Town, would go before the cabinet this week.
“While we wait for relief funds to become available from the national government, Cape Town officials continue to work hard to help residents. Funding will be channeled from the national level through the Western Cape government according to legislated requirements. The city is doing everything possible to expedite the process to the extent that its powers allow, ”the city said.
[ad_2]
