Members of the SAPS have confirmed that they were investigating a case of arson, after the double-storey Old Grosvenor Hotel building was gutted on Wednesday evening, on the corners of Madeira and Sutherland Street in the Mthatha central business district.
According to police spokesperson, Brigadier Tembinkosi Kinana, the circumstances surrounding the incident were unknown at this stage.
“However, no injuries nor fatalities were reported. Shops and other businesses attached to the building, including accommodation, were reportedly affected,” said Kinana.
One of the business owners who were using this building, Nonelwa Madikizela (35), said she lost some of her belongings due to this fire.
“I was running a salon here, and most of my products were destroyed by fire.
“I don’t know what to do anymore because this was the only business that I have,” said Madikizela.
Spokesperson for the King Sabatha Local Municipality, Sonwabo Mampoza, said they were devastated about this incident.
He confirmed that this was not the first building which had been destroyed by fire in the Mthatha CBD. He mentioned that the original building of Transkei Hotel was also burnt down recently.
“We appeal to the owners of buildings to ensure that their properties are insured and that fire extinguishers are installed, as this is a compliance matter. They must report immediately to our fire department when there is a problem,” said Mampoza.
Another historic Mthatha building has been gutted by fire.
Video : LULAMILE FENI pic.twitter.com/AYtk3g8KaL— Dispatch AFRICA (@africa_dispatch) July 28, 2021
