A Kraaifontein couple lost their lives after their shack was gutted on Sunday morning.
The brother of Mavis Khau, 37, says he is still in shock after learning his eldest sister and her partner burnt to death in their home in Mfeketo Street in Wallacedene.
Tsepang Khau, 31, says the couple died clinging to each other.
Two other people were injured and a total of 30 shacks were destroyed as firefighters battled to get the blaze under control in strong winds.
GONE: Mavis, 37.
“We heard from neighbours that Mavis and her boyfriend tried to escape, but they struggled to get the door open and there were burglar bars in front of the windows,” a heartbroken Tsepang says.
“After the flames were doused, we saw their bodies, they were clinging to each other, they died in each other’s arms.
“The state will now conduct DNA tests to determine which body is which.
“We do not know Mavis’ boyfriend, 32, but his family has come forward to help identify his body. All we have left of my sister is her scorched identity document.
“She worked as a domestic helper in Durbanville, and we were given her blue apron that she always worked in.”
He says the family needs help to bury Mavis, especially a coffin.
Community leader, Mso Mbinda, says the fire broke out at about 2am and they don’t know the cause.
REMAINS: Mso Mbinda, Mpo Lekhatlanya, Mpho Mpeta, Mavis Khau and Tsepang Khau in Wallacedene where blaze destroyed 30 homes Sunday.
The City of Cape Town has provided building material for the victims.
Confirming that two people died in the blaze, Jermaine Carelse, the Fire and Rescue spokesman said: “Brackenfell’s fire crew arrived first on scene and immediately requested more assistance as a strong wind was fanning the fire. It took firefighters almost two hours to extinguish the fire.”
Police spokesperson, Siyabulela Malo, appealed: “Anyone with information that can assist with the investigation to contact Kraaifontein SAPS on 021 980 5500
.”