The news of the said incident made rounds on social media on Monday with a video believed to be taken from the scene. One of those taking this video alleged that those who attacked these offices were irate about the tender processes within the provincial department, amongst others. Responding to allegations of the incident, the departmental spokesperson, Dumisa Seshabela, confirms to OFM News that the event is indeed true and says two offices were affected.

Seshabela also adds that she is not sure what could have led to this arson and states that in terms of tender allegations, the country has good systems to deal with complaints of tender irregularities and if there is such, they should have been reported to the police.

The South African Police Services (SAPS) and Fire Brigade were amongst those who attended to the scene. "Staff members were evacuated safely. There are no injuries. The investigation is on and we will come back to you as soon as the report is released," she adds. Seshabela continues that the MEC for the department, Kenetswe Mosenogi, has called for the perpetrators to be brought to book.

Meanwhile, the department building is not the only building ever to be stormed by irate people in the province. 

In 2017, the section of Ditsobotla Local Municipality, which includes Lichtenburg, was also set alight. This as the municipal mayor, Daniel Buthelezi, and his bodyguards were held hostage inside the municipal offices by the disgruntled residents. Buthelezi and his bodyguards were later released unharmed after several interventions by various stakeholders in an attempt to calm the situation down.

 OFM News