RURAL Metro firefighters who responded to a blaze on Monday evening were forced to flee for their lives when they came under attack in the eShobeni area of Ward 5, Mfolozi.
Their fire truck was set alight and one fireman was injured as they ran for cover.
According to Fire Chief Rassie Erasmus, a bush fire had been reported at 7.22pm, but on arrival it was in fact a plantation adjacent to some houses that was on fire.
‘Before they could start with firefighting operations, an angry crowd of people started to attack them.
‘Stones were thrown at the vehicle and the windscreen and side windows were shattered.
‘It was clear to the firefighters that they were not safe and they had to abandon the vehicle and run to safety,’ said Erasmus.
‘The vehicle was then set alight by the crowd.
‘After running for about 2km through the plantation, the firefighters realised that no one was following them and they made their way back to the main gravel road.
‘One firefighter injured his right foot while running away from the crowd and was taken to the Bay Hospital for treatment before being discharged.
‘Fortunately his injury was not serious and he was taken back to the fire station.
‘The vehicle and all the equipment on it were destroyed. This includes the fire bunker gear, fire boots, and helmets.’
It is believed the plantation was deliberately set on fire by members of the community who want the area to be handed to them as part of a land reform claim.
I think we should have more discipline and civic responsibility training for the community. Why should they resort to barbaric actions in a simple case like this. If indeed they need the land ,there are ways to get this than resorting to vandalism
Just when I thought I have heard it all. Unbelievable.