Germiston Home Affairs building gutted by fire amid eviction protests

By Johnathan Paoli

The Germiston central business district awoke to the Department of Home Affairs building engulfed in flames, forcing the closure of key roads and nearby businesses as firefighters battled to contain the blaze.

The fire broke out amid eviction-related protests, with police also moving in to remove alleged illegal occupants from a nearby block of flats.

It is believed protesters set the building alight in response to the evictions, demanding to be reinstated in the Pharoe Park flats without paying rent.

At least two people have been arrested in connection with the fire.

City of Ekurhuleni media liaison officer William Ntladi said emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 8:00am.

“The Home Affairs building is well alight. The top section is the most affected, while our crews are still trying to break into the lower level to assess the situation,” Ntladi confirmed.

Streets including President, Jack,