The Municipality of Walvis Bay has clarified reports that firefighters were stoned while responding to a shack fire in Kuisebmond earlier this month.
According to the Municipality, the incident happened on Sunday, 19 July, at about 16:57 in Sandfontein Street, Kuisebmond. When firefighters arrived, two shacks were already fully engulfed in flames. They managed to contain and extinguish the fire before it spread to nearby structures. No injuries were reported, but eight people were left displaced by the fire.
Responding to an enquiry from Namib Times, the Municipality confirmed that firefighters did experience interference at the scene. However, it said reports that they were pelted with stones are incorrect. Instead, two young men, aged 22 and 23, allegedly refused to obey instructions to leave the designated safety area, also known as the hot zone. The Municipality said this led to a confrontation while firefighters were carrying out their duties.
The Namibian Police intervened and removed the two men from the scene. Firefighting operations continued without disruption, and no firefighters or members of the public were injured. A criminal case of interfering with officials while performing their lawful duties has been opened against the two suspects. The Municipality reminded the public that emergency scenes are dangerous and that firefighters often work in areas with collapsing structures, intense heat, smoke, toxic gases, electrical hazards and other life-threatening risks. Residents are urged to follow instructions from firefighters, police officers and other emergency personnel, stay outside designated safety zones, avoid removing property unless instructed to do so, and allow emergency teams to carry out their work without interference.
The Municipality also thanked the Namibian Police and the Narraville Neighbourhood Watch Team for their assistance in restoring order and ensuring that emergency operations continued safely. Residents can report fires and other emergencies to the Municipality of Walvis Bay Fire, Emergency and Protection Services at 081 122 0888 or 064 214 400.
By Eileen van der Schyff
