Two fires that started in Rhodes University's main administration building early morning on Thursday 12 May, were extinguished before they could do serious damage, thanks to an alert security guard.
Two fires that started in Rhodes University's main administration building early morning on Thursday 12 May, were extinguished before they could do serious damage, thanks to an alert security guard.
A member of the Campus Protection Unit (CPU) smelled smoke and alerted colleagues when he found smoke coming from the two wooden doors of the Council Chamber soon after the building was unlocked for the day.
Vice-Chancellor, Dr Sizwe Mabizela issued a circular immediately after the incident, describing it as an arson attempt. He said the two fires were started with an inflamable substance at 6.45am on the floor at the south entrance of the council chamber in the main administration building.
The university expressed its deepest gratitude to the Crime Prevention Unit (CPU) guard for carrying out his duties so effectively and ensuring minimal damage to University property and the safety of staff and students.
“The incident occurred shortly after the building was unlocked for the day by a member of the CPU. The smell of the fire was quickly noticed by a CPU guard, and members of the CPU extinguished it before significant damage was done.
“The SAPS and the Fire Department are already investigating, and a Police Forensic Unit was on site immediately. The University condemns all forms of violence, arson and destruction of property,” said Mabizela.
In response to Grocott’s Mail’s questions as to whether this alleged arson attempt had any connection with recent unrest on campus, Rhodes Media Relations Officer, Catherine Deiner, said, “At this stage we cannot link this arson attempt to any protest. The police are investigating and therefore it is a police matter.
“Due to the vigilance of a guard from the CPU, the damage was not significant. CPU managed to extinguish the fire swiftly, ensuring that the damage was limited to burn damage to two wooden doors,” said Deiner.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Luvuyo Mjekula confirmed the incident and said they have opened a case of malicious damage to property.
