…As council does not have fire engine
Melinda Kusemachibi
Residents in Nyika Duma location were left shell-shocked after a fire burnt to ashes a house with property worth thousands of dollars.
The incident is reportedly attributed to an electrical fault according to sources in the neighborhood.
“We suspect that the cause of fire is an electrical fault. The fire is said to have started in one of the rooms and spread to others. Residents tried to pull property out but only managed to save a few items,” said source.
Bikita Rural District Council (RDC) is said to have failed to render assistance rather only watch as the house was destroyed as they do not have a fire engine to extinguish fires.
Bikita Residents and Ratepayers Association (BIRRA) acting secretary Mark Mutengani confirmed the incident and said council has no fire equipment.
“Yes l can confirm that a house in Bikita Duma location was reduced to ashes. As we highlighted in our vehicle scandal petition that council has no fire brigade, the house was burnt to ashes with no help from our council. Council employees came with no form of help other than watching the house destoryed by the fire,” Mutengani said.
Bikita RDC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Peter Chibhi declined to comment on the issue.
“I cannot comment on that issue,” said Chibhi.
Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa said a police report was not made hence he cannot comment on the issue.
Despite not having a fire brigade, the local authority was recently accused of misplacing priorities after purchasing and privatizing seven top-of-the range GD6 Toyota Hilux vehicles with council funds.
Just last week another house was destroyed by fire in Mucheke A, Masvingo high density and property worth US $ 4 000 was lost.
