By Buziwe Nocuze
Two children aged two and seven died in a fire that burned from 10pm until 1am in the YA Section, Site B, Khayelitsha, on Saturday night.
Community leader Lusanda Weba said the children were left with a teenage neighbour.
“We don’t know what started the fire. But we lost two kids in that fire. What we know is that they were left by their parents with a 16-year-old neighbour,” said Weba.
The teen tried to save the children.
“Even though she couldn’t save them, she’s the hero. She tried to save the kids but couldn’t because the fire was too strong. For her age, I think what she did was brave, and we pray that she survives, as she was rushed to hospital,” said Weba.
One parent was working the night shift. The fire happened on the two-year-old’s birthday.
The child was taken out to celebrate the birthday during the day. The parent later came back and left the child with the neighbour. “She promised to come back around 11pm, and the neighbour decided to use a heater while waiting for the child’s mother. Then the fire started, that’s what we heard,” said Weba.
The fire destroyed more than 15 shacks, leaving over 50 people homeless.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said the 16-year-old was taken to hospital with burns.
“Two minors aged seven and two were declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel. Khayelitsha police registered an inquest for further investigation.”
Pictured above: Two kids died in a fire in Khayelitsha township, Cape Town.
Source: Buziwe Nocuze
