KNYSNA NEWS - An inquest docket has been opened after the burnt body of a 26-year-old man was found at Kanonkop in Concordia, Knysna, although police have said that no foul play is suspected.

Police have confirmed that on 11 January at about 01:45, a shop belonging to Ethiopian national Dagafa Monore burned down, with him seemingly still inside. According to comments on social media after the fact, the man's neighbours unsuccessfully tried to gain access and save the man.

A few hours after the shop was reduced to ashes and emergency vehicles had left the scene, looting erupted, according to bystander Boniswa Zwayena.

Knysna police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies said, "No foul play is suspected and the investigation into this matter continues.'' He said it is alleged the man was inside the shop when the building started to burn. Emergency services responded to the scene and discovered the body of the deceased on the premises that was destroyed by the fire.

Shortly after the incident was posted on Knysna Plett Herald's Facebook page, some of the locals responded. Said Zukie Mkhwane, "I still can hear him screaming for help in my ears, what a beautiful soul, may his soul rest in peace." 

She related how the door was open but the gate was locked and the man did not know where the key was. The neighbours tried everything to break it, the post reads, but they failed as the flames were overpowering. ''Our hope fell as he stopped screaming," she related.

A few hours after the shop was reduced to ashes and emergency vehicles had left the scene, looting erupted, according to a bystander. Photos: Boniswa Zwayena

Another commenter, Chulumanco Madikane, said Monore was a wonderful soul. "He was a very humble person and everyone in Kanonkop was very fond of him. May his beautiful soul RIP, till we meet again."

"RIP, I truly hope there was nothing sinister," commented Rikki Fietze, while Nerine Schaper said, "This is terribly sad. May his soul rest in peace."