Matopo High School narrowly avoided a tragedy when a fire engulfed the form 1 boys’ dormitory, destroying their belongings and leaving the building in ruins. The incident occurred around 2 am last night, with one vigilant student awake to sound the alarm, ensuring all 52 students evacuated safely.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the students. Matopo High School headmaster, Gardson Sibanda, confirmed the safety of all students, expressing relief that despite the destruction of the dormitory—a modern structure with state-of-the-art amenities—no lives were lost.

“The building, although relatively new, had a wooden ceiling which unfortunately fueled the fire, causing it to spread rapidly and consume everything inside,” explained Sibanda. He added that efforts to salvage any belongings were futile as the fire consumed even the trunks.

The estimated cost of the damage is around US$200,000. Initial investigations point to an electrical fault as the likely cause of the inferno, although investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances.

Currently, all 52 students are recuperating at home and are expected to return to school promptly, with provisions made to accommodate their upcoming exams. Despite the devastation, the school administration remains grateful that the incident did not result in any loss of life.

In other news – Limpopo police seize R200,000 worth of dagga, arrest three men in operation Vuthu Hawe

Police in Burgersfort, Limpopo, apprehended three individuals after discovering them in possession of cannabis valued at R200,000 during Operation Vuthu Hawe. According to Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, spokesperson for Limpopo police, officers conducted an operation from Thursday evening until Friday at 8pm. During their patrol, they noticed a suspicious blue Toyota Corolla carrying three occupants, including the driver. The vehicle was subsequently stopped and searched.

“Upon searching the Toyota Corolla, officers found four bags of cannabis wrapped in masking tape, with an estimated street value of approximately R200,000,” Ledwaba reported. Read More