Usindiso building fire: Debris analyst didn't find traces of flammable liquids in rubble, court hears

JOHANNESBURG - Startling evidence has emerged in the case against the alleged Usindiso building arsonist, as a fire debris analyst reveals that no traces of flammable liquids were detected in the rubble.

State witness Matshidiso Mongane from the Forensic Science Laboratory presented oral testimony at the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court on Monday.

Mongane is part of the team that examined debris samples from the blaze that claimed 76 lives.

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Thirty-one-year-old Sthembiso Mdlalose is standing trial for his alleged involvement in the tragedy.

In his confession, Mdlalose admitted to pouring petrol on the body of a man he claims to have murdered, in an attempt to destroy evidence.

He claims he bought the petrol from a nearby filling station and used it to start the fire on the ground floor of the building.

The State has relied on his confession to link him to the fire.

However, Mongane, who analysed debris samples, says no traces of petrol were found.

"The absence of detectable quantities of ignitable liquid residues does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that ignitable liquids were not present at the scene."

The defence maintains the State has no additional evidence linking Mdlalose to the fire, aside from his confession, which he attempted to retract last month.