Riverlea school fire: Gauteng police open case of arson
Officers say witnesses have shared information suggesting the blaze may have been deliberately started on Sunday.
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire started in one of the unused classrooms. Picture: Thandoluhle Ngcobo/Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - Gauteng police have opened a case of arson after a fire destroyed 11 classrooms at Riverlea Secondary School in Randburg.
Officers say witnesses have shared information suggesting the blaze may have been deliberately started on Sunday.
The fire erupted in an unused classroom and spread through the building, destroying an entire block.
Education authorities say they suspect that there were people on school grounds on the day of the fire.
Police said a team of senior detectives, including members of the forensic science laboratory, will be investigating the incident and track down those responsible.
READ: 11 classrooms gutted by blaze at Riverlea school
"The police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation. Information can also be given anonymously via My SAPS app," said Gauteng police spokesperson, Mavela Masondo.
The Gauteng Education Department said about 230 pupils will be accommodated in mobile classrooms when they return to school on Monday.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has condemned the incident, describing it as a senseless attack on the future of the country.