Deadly Paraffin Storage Site Uncovered in Mamelodi: City Takes Swift Action
Mamelodi, City of Tshwane – May 20, 2025
A potentially fatal disaster has been averted in Mamelodi after city officials uncovered an illegal paraffin storage site, prompting an urgent response from the City of Tshwane.
According to an official statement released by Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya, a large fuel tank—filled to capacity with paraffin—was discovered hidden inside a poorly ventilated room within a residential area. The tank, which had been concealed from public view, posed an alarming safety risk to nearby residents.
“The situation was dire,” said Mayor Moya during a press briefing earlier today. “The presence of a highly flammable substance in such dangerous conditions meant that an explosion could have occurred at any moment, especially with no ventilation and inadequate safety measures. We are fortunate to have detected it before tragedy struck.”
The site, believed to have been used for unauthorized fuel storage, was brought to the city’s attention through an anonymous tip-off. Upon arrival, emergency services and fire officials confirmed the seriousness of the hazard and immediately secured the area.
Fire authorities have since locked down the site and cordoned off nearby buildings to prevent any exposure to potential fire hazards. Residents in the immediate vicinity were temporarily evacuated as a precaution.
The City of Tshwane has now called on the Department of Energy to oversee the safe removal of the paraffin tank. The Department is expected to begin the extraction process within the next 48 hours under strict safety protocols.
Community leaders and residents have expressed deep concern over the discovery. “It’s terrifying to think we were living right next to a ticking time bomb,” said Lerato Molapo, a resident whose home is less than 20 meters from the site. “We are relieved the authorities acted so quickly.”
An investigation has been launched to determine who was responsible for the illegal storage. The City has promised that those found guilty of endangering public lives through unsafe fuel practices will face full legal consequences.
Mayor Moya concluded by urging all residents to report any suspicious storage or handling of flammable materials. “Community safety is a shared responsibility. We must remain vigilant and speak up when we notice potential threats.”
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unregulated fuel storage and the importance of rigorous enforcement of safety standards. The City of Tshwane has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents and ensuring that such a situation does not occur again.
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