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30 January 2026
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Tshwane Emergency Services respond swiftly to Melgisedek building fire in Rietfontein
On Monday, 2 February 2026, the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department (ESD) responded promptly to a fire incident at the Melgisedek building in Rietfontein, Tshwane. Emergency Services received the fire call via the Emergency Call Centre at approximately 07h33. Firefighting resources from Innesdale, Hatfield and Central Fire Stations were immediately dispatched to the scene and commenced firefighting operations upon arrival. Fire operations were smoothly coordinated on site to ensure an effective, structured and safe response.
Firefighters found the fire concentrated on the third floor of the building, with flames having engulfed a significant portion of the structure. The roof collapsed and preliminary assessments indicate that approximately 21 rooms were affected by the fire. Occupants of the building managed to evacuate safely before the fire spread further. Two individuals were treated on scene for smoke inhalation and were transported to a nearby medical facility for further medical care.
Approximately 47 people were affected by the incident. The City’s Disaster Risk Management unit, in collaboration with the Department of Social Development, arranged alternative temporary shelter for displaced occupants. However, most affected residents opted to seek accommodation with friends and relatives.
Fire crews worked diligently under coordinated fire operations to contain the blaze, prevent further structural damage, and ensure the safety of adjacent properties. The scene was secured to allow emergency personnel to operate safely and efficiently.
The building does not comply with applicable fire safety requirements. In addition, the building has no electricity supply. The cause of the fire is currently unknown and the Emergency Services Department will conduct preliminary investigations once firefighting operations have been fully concluded.
The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department commends the coordinated
efforts of all responding teams and continues to encourage residents to prioritise fire
safety and to report emergencies promptly through the City’s emergency channels.
Source: Nana Radebe-Kgiba, deputy chief, Public Information and Liaison Services, City of Tshwane Emergency Services
Firefighters found the fire concentrated on the third floor of the building, with flames having engulfed a significant portion of the structure. The roof collapsed and preliminary assessments indicate that approximately 21 rooms were affected by the fire. Occupants of the building managed to evacuate safely before the fire spread further. Two individuals were treated on scene for smoke inhalation and were transported to a nearby medical facility for further medical care.
Approximately 47 people were affected by the incident. The City’s Disaster Risk Management unit, in collaboration with the Department of Social Development, arranged alternative temporary shelter for displaced occupants. However, most affected residents opted to seek accommodation with friends and relatives.
Fire crews worked diligently under coordinated fire operations to contain the blaze, prevent further structural damage, and ensure the safety of adjacent properties. The scene was secured to allow emergency personnel to operate safely and efficiently.
The building does not comply with applicable fire safety requirements. In addition, the building has no electricity supply. The cause of the fire is currently unknown and the Emergency Services Department will conduct preliminary investigations once firefighting operations have been fully concluded.
The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department commends the coordinated
efforts of all responding teams and continues to encourage residents to prioritise fire
safety and to report emergencies promptly through the City’s emergency channels.
Source: Nana Radebe-Kgiba, deputy chief, Public Information and Liaison Services, City of Tshwane Emergency Services