Pretoria - Police in Macassar, just outside Cape Town, are investigating the cause of a fire that has left nine people dead.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of this morning, has left about 10 families displaced. An additional two people sustained injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital. Of the nine deceased people, six were children and one was an infant.
According to the City of Cape Town Emergency Services spokesperson, Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, the fire started at one house and spread to other nearby homes. "The cause of the fire is still unknown at this stage," said Solomon-Johannes.
City of Cape Town Mayor Alderman Dan Plato, who extended his condolences to the families of the victims, is expected to visit the area.
"I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends and community of the nine people who were killed in the fire. I will visit the families this morning and extend the City's support to them during this difficult time."
The City's Disaster Risk Management Centre is coordinating social relief and counselling of family, neighbours and bystanders who witnessed the traumatic event.
Residents can call the City's 107 emergency number from a Telkom line, or (021) 480-7700 from a cell phone in cases of emergencies.
