Picture: The fire gutted Pilanesberg Airport in Rustenburg/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari said the Pilanesberg International Airport, near Sun City, has been gutted by fire. Lehari, who rushed to the scene said it seems the fire started near the Air Traffic Control Tower.
“At around 12:00pm, the security officers at the airport reported smoke but could not detect what was burning. Upon investigation, they realised the smoke was coming from the top of the building close to the Air Traffic Control Tower.
“Some of the Airport personnel rushed to the tower and tried to extinguish the fire. However, the flames engulfed the area and in seconds, the thatched roof of the airport caved in. The personnel tried in vain to put it out as the structure was completely gutted,” he said.
Lehari further said the Sun City Fire Services and the Rustenburg Fire Services arrived shortly thereafter and did everything they could. He added that they have ordered an immediate investigation.
“We would like to leave no stone unturned to ensure we get to the bottom of the cause of the fire,” said Lehari.
The Guardian 