By Neelam Rahim

Devastation and ruin are all that remain at what is known as the Road Five Informal Settlement in Brentwood Park after the blaze tore through the informal settlement in Benoni on Friday night. A fire ravaged the homes of nearly 700 people just after 22:00 on June 3.

DEMS and members of the Benoni Sector two CPF responded to the scene and brought the blaze under control. Ekurhuleni emergency service says the blaze, which was fanned by strong winds, was contained in the early hours of the morning.

More than 30 firefighters remained on the scene to monitor possible flare-ups.

EMS spokesperson Eric Maloka says more than 1,500 people have been displaced, including women and children.

CPF members were on the scene on June 4, distributing food to the affected women and children.

Lornette Joseph ward councillor, said, “Temporary housing and relief aid are currently being arranged to assist to the best of our ability.”

“We are in the process of gathering the personal details of everyone that has been affected,” said Joseph.