Flames in the Containers: Investigation Launched Into Schoemansdal Police Station Fire

An investigation is underway after a fire broke out at the Schoemansdal police station in Mpumalanga on Thursday afternoon, destroying two office containers and raising questions about the cause of the blaze.

According to provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, the fire started at around 12 noon on 19 February 2026. Police members on duty noticed flames in the two containers being used as office spaces and immediately reported the incident.

No Injuries, Significant Damage

Fortunately, all officers were on duty at the time, and no injuries were reported.

The fire caused significant damage to the two office containers and the items inside them. Firefighters and Emergency Services responded swiftly to the scene and were able to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading further within the facility.

The cause of the fire remains unknown at this stage.

Investigation Underway

The acting provincial commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, confirmed that an enquiry has been opened and that a team of experts has been appointed to investigate the cause of the incident.

Police said assessments will be conducted to determine the full extent of the damage.

Questions Remain

For now, the Schoemansdal police station is left with two gutted containers and a team of investigators searching for answers. How did the fire start? Was it accidental, or something more sinister? And what does it mean for a police station already operating out of temporary structures?

The investigation will hopefully provide those answers. Until then, the officers of Schoemansdal continue their worknow with one fewer office and one more mystery to solve.