Online Reporter
Obey Sibanda, Chronicle Reporter
PROPERTY worth thousands of dollars were lost when popular Mzilikazi restaurant was yesterday morning gutted by fire under unclear circumstances.
The popular local eatery, Dlamini’s Traditional Kitchen, run by mother-daughter duo Sibuyile Dlamini and Ntombisuthu Moyo, was destroyed by fire yesterday.
The incident has left the community shocked and searching for answers. The cause of the fire remains unknown as investigations are ongoing.
Bulawayo Fire Brigade Acting Chief Fire Officer, Mr Linos Phiri, confirmed the incident, saying, “When we arrived at the scene, we found the facility had already been burnt down, with neighbouring business owmers trying to put out the fire. Investigations are currently underway to establish the cause of the fire.”
He revealed initial indications pointed the fire to have been caused by a petrol bomb.
“We interviewed neighbouring business owners who told us that when the fire occurred, both Dlamini and Moyo were inside the shop and they escaped and disappeared from the scene in panick,” said the Acting Chief Fire Officer.
The restaurant is located next to some shops and Mzilikazi clinic.
A resident of Mzilikazi, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that some members of the community suspect the fire was deliberately set. “There are whispers that the restaurant was burnt down by people from the community who accused Ntombisuthu Moyo of being a lesbian,” the resident said. “They also blame her mother, Sibuyile, for encouraging her.”
The allegations have stirred tensions in the neighborhood, with many expressing concern over the social dynamics affecting the family.
Authorities are yet to comment on the progress of the investigation into the fire. Meanwhile, community leaders are calling for calm and urging residents to allow the matter to be handled through proper channels.
Dlamini’s Traditional Kitchen had been a well-loved spot in Mzilikazi, known for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
