Johannesburg – The death toll from the burning building in the Joburg CBD has climbed to more than 70, including children.
City of Joburg EMS Spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said at least 73 burnt bodies had been recovered from the five-storey Usindiso building, at the corner of Delvers, Alberts Streets.
More than 50 people – some injured and others who had suffered smoke inhalation – were ferried to hospitals.
The building caught alight in the early hours of Thursday.
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When the fire was finally extinguished EMS went floor by floor as they carried out a search and rescue operation.
Mulaudzi said the building was partitioned off into smaller sections that made escaping the ferocious fire difficult.
About 200 people were thought to reside at the ill-fated building for nominal rentals of R1 200 per person.
Some tenants spoken to one scene said water and electricity were free.
Others said a landlord collects payments for water and lights, but they could not say if the building was up-to-date with its bills for services.
Mulaudzi said once the EMS had completed the search and rescue mission the scene of the tragedy would be handed over to the SA Police Service.
Johannesburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda revealed that the building that was gutted by fire belonged to the City.
He said families had been displaced as a result of the fire and 40 people were still in hospital.
Gift of the Givers were on the scene assisting survivors.
