Staff Reporter.
Two people have been killed and three injured in an explosion at a recyling factory in Akasia, North of Pretoria on Thursday afternoon.
Tshwane Emergency Services were alerted to the incident shortly after it happened, prompting a swift response from multiple agencies.
Spokesperson Lindsay Mnguni said the cause of the explosion is under investigation.
“Upon arrival, firefighters found out that an unknown explosive had caused an explosion inside the premises of the recycling plant but there was no fire. Several first responding units, including the South African police service, the Tshwane metro police department and several private emergency medical services were on the scene and assisted with incident management,” said Mnguni.
Mnguni added that two people lost their lives in the blast, while three were injured, two sustained critical injuries, necessitating immediate airlifting to a hospital. The third victim was transported to a nearby facility by ambulance.
This incident echoes a growing concern about safety in industrial zones. Just last month, an explosion at the Njala Infeed Substation in Pretoria East left large areas without power, though no casualties were reported. However the Akasia blast, underscores the potential dangers lurking in facilities handling potentially volatile materials.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.