Kgetlengrivier Local Municipality experienced another horrific incident within five (5) years in Reagile, Senthumole section. We are in great shock and pain after receiving terrible news that one of our household that is based in one of our informal settlement has been engulfed by fire in the early hours of Saturday morning; 08 September 2018.
In this horrific incident we have unfortunately lost seven (7) lives. A mother of six (6) children Ms Boitumelo Mafoko passed on together with her four (4) children, Dibueng Mafoko 22yrs, Boikanyo Mafoko 19yrs, Munga Mafoko 3yrs, Mpopo Mafoko 2yrs and grandchildren Koketso Mafoko 3yrs and Sanga 9 months old. The family is survived by Mr Samual Vettas, Ms Boitumelo Mafoko’s partner and two (2) children Rea Mafoko 7yrs and Kuru Mafoko 10 yrs who were not home when the incident happened.
The investigations have been concluded by the South African Police Services pertaining the identity of the deceased and the cause of the fire. The Municipality wish not to venture into speculations as to what might have caused the fire but rather will await an official report from the relevant authorities investigating the matter.
The Municipality, collaborating with other Government Departments has meet with the family to assess the immediate intervention and render support to the family. The Intergovernmental Relations meeting was called and the Mayor; Kim Medupe urged that the departments assist and support the bereaved family by providing counselling, assist with the funeral arrangements to ensure that the deceased receive a dignified send off.
The MEC; Hoffman Galeng: Department of Social Development, Mayor; Kim Onicca Medupe, Councillors and government officials visited the bereaved family to console and offer needed support.
During the visit to the family the MEC said that they are deeply touched by what happened and will ensure that the family receive a devoted support. He further ensured that his department will offer support to the two (2) children that have survived and provide counselling. He urged that the family work hand in hand with government.
“We are deeply pained and traumatised by this horrific incident we call on our entire community to keep the family in their prayers in this trying time. We are going through emotional tension sharing this pain together with the bereaved family and relatives”. said the Mayor. She said that the Municipal offices will be open to assist where possible.
After meeting with the family they visited the Mafoko’s home where their lives ends.
