It broke out on Tuesday (21/7) evening at a shop in the commercial building and subsequently spread to other businesses. Its cause is being investigated.

Police have launched an arson investigation after the fire tore through a commercial building in Meyerton’s CBD. CCTV footage allegedly captured three suspects entering an Ackermans store shortly before the fire erupted.

Emergency services were called to the scene at 20:19, where firefighters found the building already engulfed in flames. The fire damaged five businesses, including the Meyerton Sassa office, disrupting services for social grant beneficiaries.

While no members of the public were injured, one firefighter sustained minor injuries during efforts to contain the fire. “Police are appealing to the public for information that could assist in identifying and locating the suspects,” said Meyerton police spokesperson Nompumelelo Zazini.

“After the fire broke out, four suspects fled the scene and four buildings were affected by fire. The buildings were the Meyerton Sassa offices, Ackermans, Crazy Store, Fashion World, and Sweets Land.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call the Meyerton police on 082 822 7680 or the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.

‘The Meyerton local office will remain closed until further notice’

Sassa advised beneficiaries to use its Vereeniging and Sebokeng local offices or access services online while damage assessments and investigations continue.

“The safety and wellbeing of our beneficiaries, employees and stakeholders remain our highest priority,” said Gauteng Sassa spokesperson Lungelo Mkamba. “As a precaution, the Meyerton local office will remain closed until further notice while the extent of the damage is assessed and the premises are declared safe for occupation.

“We want to assure beneficiaries that measures have been put in place to ensure uninterrupted access to services. Beneficiaries are also encouraged to make use of Sassa’s online services, to reduce the need to visit a local office while the Meyerton office remains closed.

Sassa sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused by this unforeseen incident. We are working closely with the relevant authorities to assess the damage and restore full services at the Meyerton local office as swiftly and safely as possible.”

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

• Do you have a news tip to share? Call or whatsapp the OFM News line: 066 487 1427.