COGTA MEC to visit areas affected by deadly KZN veld fires as death toll climbs

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) department in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has confirmed that three more firefighters have died while battling a veld fire in the midlands.

On Sunday, a blaze claimed the lives of three others while seven residents died when their homes were gutted by the inferno.

COGTA MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi is expected to visit disaster-hit communities on Monday.

“Various departments across government have been mobilized to provide support to all the communities that have been affected by these raging fires,” said KZN COGTA spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila.

ONE FIREFIGHTER FIGHTING FOR LIFE IN HOSPITAL

The runaway fires hit parts of province a week ago, although it had been contained in most parts things took a different turn over the weekend.

Last week, the COGTA authorities confirmed the veld fires had been contained especially in northern parts of the province where it was most severe.

The devastation has already left seven families mourning their loved ones killed because of the fire.

Umngeni Mayor Chris Pappas gives an account of how the firefighters died.

“Three private firefighters died on scene and another three died later in hospital due to the severity of their burns. One firefighter is still in hospital on a ventilator fighting for his life. As of last night, no structures were reported as destroyed.”

Pappas has expressed condolences to those who died in the line of duty.

-EWN

In other news – PIC: Kabza De Small’s R35 000 Christian Dior bag leaves Mzansi speechless

Well-known South African DJ and producer, Amapiano King Kabza De Small has become a household name in the entertainment industry and has headlined several shows worldwide.

With a career spanning years, he has worked with some of the biggest acts in the music industry, including Canadian rapper Drake. Undoubtedly, his services don’t come anywhere cheap, and his booking fees have often thrust him into the top trends. Read More

The post COGTA MEC to visit areas affected by deadly KZN veld fires as death toll climbs appeared first on News365.co.za.