Shops Near Rustenburg Taxi Rank Engulfed in Blaze, Four Businesses Destroyed

A fierce fire broke out near the taxi rank in Rustenburg on Friday evening, causing extensive damage to four shops before it was finally brought under control the following morning.

The Rustenburg Local Emergency and Disaster Management team received the alert at approximately 20:15 and responded swiftly, arriving at the scene just two minutes later. On arrival, firefighters encountered a well-established blaze that posed a serious risk to surrounding structures.

Deploying strategic and technical expertise, the firefighting team utilized 65mm and 45mm hoses to tackle the flames. Despite their prompt efforts, the intense compartment load caused four shops to be completely consumed by the fire.

The operation involved a multi-agency response, a testament to the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) among local emergency services and stakeholders. Rustenburg’s team dispatched two major fire engines and a skid unit, staffed by 11 firefighters, including the Chief Fire Officer. Additional support came from Anglo Platinum, which contributed a major pumper and skid unit with six firefighters led by a team captain, while Bafokeng EMRS supplied another skid unit with two crew members. Kgetleng’s response unit also assisted with a sedan and three crew members.

Firefighters gained control over the fire by approximately 10:00 on Saturday, and by 11:30, the flames were completely extinguished.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, and Rustenburg SAPS have taken over the scene for forensic investigation to determine the origins of the blaze. Further updates are expected as investigations continue.