PLETT & KNYSNA NEWS - At least 20 dwellings were destroyed in a fire that broke out in Qolweni, Plettenberg Bay, during the early hours of Saturday morning 20 December.

According to a media statement issued by the Bitou Municipality, the fire started at approximately 01:00. Fire and Rescue Services were dispatched to the scene and worked to contain and manage the blaze.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown and remains under investigation. Municipal officials confirmed that further details will be communicated once the investigation has been concluded.

Disaster Management teams were immediately deployed and are currently providing humanitarian relief to affected residents at the Bossiesgif Bicycle Shed. Verification of affected victims is ongoing.

Municipal Disaster Management officials estimate that around 20 dwellings were impacted by the fire.

The Bitou Municipality expressed its appreciation to all key role players and organisations who assisted during the incident. Individual statements of appreciation will be issued to acknowledge the support received.

In other news, community members from Nekkies have confirmed that the young man who sustained severe burns during the Nekkies fire in Knysna has sadly succumbed to his injuries. 

The identity of the victim has not yet been released to the media. Further updates will be provided in due course.

A video of the blaze which occurred in Nekkies on Wednesday 17 December at 05:00 can be viewed on Knysna-Plett Herald's website.

The aftermath of the Qolweni, Plettenberg Bay fire that destroyed approximately 20 households. Photo: Supplied

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