Pretoria - North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has expressed sadness over the reported death of four people, who died when a ferry carrying 200 passengers on the Hartbeespoort Dam caught fire on Saturday afternoon.
“On behalf of the North West Provincial Government, we send our condolences to the family affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult moment.
“We urge our police to ensure that the necessary investigations are conducted to determine the cause of the fire,” said Premier Mahumapelo.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Pelonomi Makau said the ferry caught fire at about 1pm on Saturday.
“Following an incident in which four women died when a cruise boat caught fire at Cosmos Boat Club in Hartebeesport Dam, police are investigating a case of Inquest,” said Lieutenant Colonel Makau, adding that the cause of the fire was still unknown.
North West MEC for Tourism, Mme Desbo Mohono, also sent condolences to the families of the deceased.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the dearly departed,” MEC Mohono said.
The MEC said the efforts of the emergency teams, which reacted with speed to the accident thus preventing the loss of more lives, were appreciated.
“More facts on the accident will be revealed after the authorities have done their investigation.
“At this point we urge everyone to treat this matter with the sensitivity it deserves and to allow the families to mourn in peace and to be supported. May the souls of the deceased rest in peace,” said MEC Mohono. – SAnews.gov.za
