Cape St Francis blaze under control

The Kouga Municipality says a veldfire which has been raging in Cape St Francis since Saturday is under control.

Port Elizabeth – The veld fire which has been raging in Cape St Francis in the Eastern Cape was under control, the Kouga Municipality said on Monday afternoon.

Kouga Municipality spokesperson Laura-Leigh Randall said firefighters were still dampening a few hot spots and keeping a close eye on the wind which could cause the fire to flare up again.

The fire started in the reserve near Sea Vista township on Saturday and earlier reports by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) in St Francis Bay indicated the fire had reportedly started after a flare landed on a piece of land.

St Francis Bay Police said on Monday that an inquiry was opened to investigate the cause of fire, but disputed that a case of arson was being investigated as initially reported.

The Kouga Municipality had earlier confirmed that it had initially opened a case of arson.

Randall added that no houses were burnt down but did confirm a grass boma had burnt down in the Mosterthoek area.

“We are not aware of injuries although four firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation last night, [Sunday] “said Randall.

Randall added that while early reports from the Fire Department were that the fire had been caused by a flare, the police were investigating the matter and would make the final call as to the cause of the blaze.

African News Agency

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