Germiston Shack Fire Leaves Dozens Homeless After Alleged Suicide Attempt

A devastating fire ripped through Makause informal settlement near Germiston on Monday night, leaving scores of residents without homes. According to community leaders, the blaze—which destroyed around 50 shacks—was allegedly started during a failed suicide attempt.

Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) party community leader for the Ekurhuleni region, Sifiso Luthuli, said he received reports from residents who witnessed the incident.

Alleged Suicide Attempt Sparked the Blaze in Germiston

Luthuli shared details from the latest accounts on Tuesday morning, explaining that the suspect allegedly set his shack alight after clashing with community members.

“He was running away from the community. He went into the shack, then he wanted to commit suicide,” Luthuli told reporters.

“He burned the shack inside, [and] then when he started feeling the heat, he ran away. The fire then started to spread to other shacks. Approximately 50 shacks were burnt.”

The suspect has since been arrested, though Gauteng police and Ekurhuleni emergency services have not yet confirmed the circumstances. Updates from authorities are expected in due course.

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With many residents losing nearly all their belongings, Luthuli urged the public and local government to step in.

“I am told that most of them are left with nothing. They need blankets and food and all the items for basic survival,” he said.

Calling on municipal leaders to act, Luthuli emphasised the need for disaster management services to support victims of the fire.

“Not only is it our duty to oppose the government, but we also extend our hands wherever we can. They need to show leadership and assist in whatever way they can,” he added.

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