A 29-year-old man has been arrested in Gauteng after confessing to his involvement in starting the devastating fire that engulfed the hijacked Usindiso Building in August of last year.
The fire claimed the lives of at least 76 individuals who resided in the Marshalltown, Joburg CBD building.
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According to Gauteng police spokesperson, Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the suspect was apprehended on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, following his confession at the commission of inquiry.
He now faces a range of serious charges, including arson, 76 counts of murder, and 120 counts of attempted murder. The 29-year-old man is expected to appear before the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court in the near future.
The Marshalltown fire, which occurred in the early hours of August 31, 2023, prompted the establishment of a commission of inquiry chaired by retired judge Sisi Khampepe. The blaze had ravaged a city-owned building that had been taken over by illegal landlords, who were renting out the property to over 200 economically disadvantaged families in need of accommodation.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi initiated a two-phase, politically-free commission of inquiry into the fire on September 13. This week, the hearing proceeded with the testimony of a witness whose identity was kept confidential due to concerns for their safety.
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While the hearing was held in camera, journalists were permitted to attend without disclosing the witness’s identity, as ordered by Judge Khampepe.
The arrest of the 29-year-old suspect brings a glimmer of hope for justice to the victims and their families affected by this tragic incident. The legal process will now determine the full extent of his involvement and the consequences he will face for his alleged actions.
