More than one arsonist behind spate of Cape fires
Firefighters prepare to battle the blaze near the N2. Firefighters prepare to battle the blaze near the N2.
The recent fires could have been started by several arsonists.
The fire outbreaks in and around Cape Town recently have lead to an investigation into whether arsonists hade been involved.
Mayoral committee member
for safety and security JP Smith said while many of
the fires had been started intentionally, the motives behind the fires varied.
In many cases, people had been reported leaving a fire's point of origin.
The descriptions of their appearances varied significantly, indicating the fires were probably started by different people.
Smith said the Heldenberg fire was likely to have been set to render an area ready for building as the fire started at the back of an informal settlement.
In order to clear the land to expand settlements, residents will occasionally burn the vegetation in the area.
Smith said the fire on Signal Hill had been started by children who admitted they started the fires out of boredom, as the “fire brings helicopters”.
eNCA reported the fire had been started in three different places and that Smith said: “A 14-year-old male was detained and identified by the community but he managed to run away before the law enforcement officials could nab him. He was pointed out by community members as having been responsible.”
Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk confirmed three cases of arson had been reported.
“Two homes in Pinetree Avenue, Vredehoek, and one at Disa Court as well as a security office were damaged. Another park fire was attended to in Schotsche Kloof in Bo-Kaap area and there was no property damaged.”
When asked about the progression of the investigation, Ignatius Smart, head of Fire and Life Safety in Cape Town, said: “Please be advised that the investigations is ongoing and is not concluded.”
The police are offering a reward to anyone who can provide information that leads to a conviction.