MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The 56-year-old man who died in the fire that destroyed more than 30 informal structures in KwaNonqaba late on 27 December, has been identified as Thobile Nketshane.
The KwaNonqaba Police were alerted to the fire just before 02:00 on 26 December, and upon their arrival, they found the body of Nketshane under the debris of the burnt informal dwellings.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies said that an inquest had been opened and that the cause of the fire had not been established.
The sister of Nketshane, Regina Maso, told Mossel Bay Advertiser the funeral for her brother has not yet been held as the family is still awaiting the outcome of the cause of the fire.
She said her brother is originally from Queenstown (Komani) in the Eastern Cape, but was working in Mossel Bay as a builder at the time of his death. She said he leaves behind a 22-year-old daughter, who lives in Gauteng.
"He liked to laugh. He was a quiet man who didn't like to fight. He was a calm person," said Maso.
KwaNonqaba Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson Shadrack Shishana said families were reeling at the loss of their homes.
The scene of the fire in KwaNonqaba on 25 December. Photo: Supplied
He said the CPF and other stakeholders and community members are facilitating donations to those affected by the fire.
Several donations had been made, but because a large number of people were affected, the CPF is welcoming more donations, of building materials, clothes, food and household items.
Call Shishana (084 911 7379) or CPF member, Cynthia Nofemele (083 517 3402). Donations can also be dropped off at KwaNonqaba Police Station.
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