adminAmong the property burnt to ashes were a bus, 35-tonne crane, two H12 horses, a Mercedes-Benz and tractor, among other properties.
Harare police spokesperson Inspector Tedious Chibanda confirmed the incident.
“I can confirm that there was a fire which broke out yesterday at Pesket Trading that burnt down property including a 35-tonne crane, bus, a Mercedes-Benz, a Volvo and H12 horse, among other vehicles.
“As of now, the cause of the fire is yet to be established. We are still waiting for the fire brigade to furnish us with the full details and the value of the destroyed property is also yet to be established,” said Insp Chibanda.
In some interviews with witnesses, James Moyo, an air time vendor, said that the fire was started by a man who repairs shoes at the back of the workshop.
“There is a man who works behind the garage along the railway line. He started the fire when he was burning tyres to get some wires.
“He failed to control the fire due to heavy winds leading to it crossing to Pesket Trading and setting ablaze the property,” he said.
An employee at Pesket who preferred anonymity had a conflicting story.
“We were busy working on something when we saw smoke in the sky prompting us to investigate. Someone informed us that an employee at a company next to Woodrow started the fire by burning trash that he was sweeping,” he said.
A witness, Mr Ben Chimushonga, had no kind words for the fire brigade crew.
“These guys are not serious. How could they arrive at the scene after 30 minutes without water to put out the fire?
“It is almost two hours now and the fire is still raging.
“They are drawing their water close to a kilometre away, an indication of disorganisation,” he said.
The owner of premises, only identified as Mr Leonard Manhanhanha, said:
“I cannot comment on anything right now. As you can see, I am still in a state of disbelief.
“The fire started while I was attending a meeting only to be informed of the mishap,” the visibly shaken Mr Manhanhanha said.
Online Reporter