Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Zimpapers Senior Reporter
ELEPHANT Lodge, previously known as Jamaica Inn, about 40 km outside Bulawayo along Gwanda Road, was today completely destroyed by an inferno believed to have originated from a nearby veld fire.
The lodge, which has hosted the famous UB40 band, was engulfed by flames just after 2 pm, and four hours later, the Bulawayo Fire Brigade crew was still battling the blaze, although a large part of it had been contained.
Four fire tenders and 20 firefighters were deployed to the scene.
The lodge is owned by Mr Tony Do Santos.
The value of property lost is still being evaluated by the brigade, but from observations on the ground, nothing was salvaged.
It is the second time the establishment has been gutted by fire, following a similar incident this time last year.
derick.khumalo