Johannesburg – Lawrance Sithembiso Mdlalose, a 30-year-old man charged with igniting the fire at the Usindiso Building that tragically claimed 76 lives, made his first court appearance at the High Court in Johannesburg.
On Friday, 14 February 2025, Mdlalose, who faces multiple charges related to the deaths, had a short hearing in court.
He appeared without legal representation, leading the court to postpone the proceedings to 21 February 2025.
As a response to this heartbreaking incident, National Prosecuting Authority Gauteng Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane noted that a commission of inquiry was established.
During the inquiry, Mdlalose testified before a magistrate, acknowledging his role in starting the fire.
“Mdlalose was arrested on 23 January 2024 and faces 76 counts of murder, one count of arson, and 12 counts of attempted murder,” Mjonondwane clarified.
A police investigation led by Colonel Andile Manganyi revealed the series of events leading to the devastating fire that resulted in 76 deaths and left 12 others injured.
“The accused, who lived in the building, reportedly got into a violent altercation with a person known as KB in a ground-floor room on 31 August 2023,” stated Mjonondwane.
“He reportedly assaulted KB to collect payment for drugs that KB had sold for him.
“The beating persisted until KB lost consciousness, prompting the accused to panic, mistakenly thinking that KB was dead.”
He then left to fetch petrol, allegedly pouring it over KB’s body before setting it ablaze.
The fire rapidly spread, engulfing the building as the accused remained outside, pretending to be innocent.
“Occupants begged for help, with some even jumping from the building,” mourned Phindi Mjonondwane.
“The aftermath revealed charred and severely injured bodies strewn both inside and outside the building.”
