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Family Awaits DNA Results for Burial of Victim in Joburg CBD Fire Tragedy

Published

3 months ago

January 24, 2024

The family of Sizwe Cele, one of the victims in the recent Johannesburg building fire, faces a heartbreaking wait for DNA results before they can proceed with the burial of their loved one. Jacaranda FM reports that Sizwe, aged 35, lost his life alongside another person when a fire engulfed the hijacked Express Building on Nugget Street. The incident, allegedly triggered by Bonisiwe Gumede pouring paraffin into her boyfriend’s room following a heated argument, left both victims burned beyond recognition. Sizwe’s uncle, Msongelo Mnisi, expressed the family’s reliance on DNA testing due to the extent of the burns, emphasising the need for confirmation through this process. In the aftermath of Gumede’s court appearance, Mnisi shared that they await information from the case investigator about the timing of the DNA test results. The detective had collected samples from the deceased’s sibling, Musa Cele, and the family anticipates the testing to be conducted by someone coming from Pretoria, with the results expected next week.

Also read: City of Johannesburg to Verify Legal Status of Displaced Fire Victims in CBD Incident

Mnisi, joined in court by his wife and Cele’s two visibly distraught siblings, highlighted the profound impact of the tragedy on the family. Sizwe’s brother, who informed Mnisi of the incident on Sunday, played a crucial role in notifying the family. Mnisi reflected on his nephew’s aspirations, noting that Sizwe, who had no children, had come to Johannesburg from KwaZulu-Natal to explore opportunities in the taxi industry. His father’s previous involvement in the taxi business influenced his decision. As the family copes with the loss, Mnisi expresses the sadness of seeing Gumede, the woman accused of starting the fatal fire. Gumede will return to court on 30 January to face charges related to the incident.

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