Sidumisile Mabena
Bongani Ndlovu, Deputy Echo Editor
THE devastating inferno that ripped through fuel-related premises along Godrich Road in Bulawayo on Monday night, left behind a trail of twisted metal, gutted vehicles and a badly burnt German shepherd dog as firefighters fought for three hours to contain the destruction.
By the time the flames were subdued, two large fuel tankers, two medium tankers, five mini tankers and a Toyota Hiace had been completely destroyed at the premises opposite DA Garage, turning the yard into a graveyard of burnt-out wreckage.
In a statement on Tuesday, Bulawayo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the damage worsened after the blaze spilled into a neighbouring property.
“The fire spread into an adjacent yard where three large trucks, a bus and two small cars were also destroyed,” said Insp Msebele.
She said the inferno also claimed an animal victim.
“A German shepherd dog was found lying on the ground struggling to move after sustaining burn injuries during the fire,” said Insp Msebele.
Firefighters from the Famona Fire Brigade were on the scene for more than three hours battling the intense heat and explosions caused by fuel-fed flames, amid fears the destruction could spread further.
Police said the blaze is suspected to have been caused by an illegal electricity connection at a fuel garage along Godrich Road.
“No human injuries were recorded, but the damage caused is extensive. The affected premises have been placed under police guard and investigations are ongoing,” said Insp Msebele.
The total value of the destroyed property is yet to be determined
Online Reporter