The Makhado police is investigating a case of arson after a police house burned down in Louis Trichardt early on Friday morning.

“At this stage, it is unclear what caused the fire,” said local police spokesperson Const Irene Radzilani on Friday.  

The fire was reported to the local fire brigade at approximately 02:00. Two police officials, who were staying in the house in Rissik Street, tried to extinguish the flames, but to no avail. The two officials were woken up by the smell of smoke.

One of the policeman sustained minor burns on his hand. The fire also caused damaged to one of the policeman’s private vehicle that was parked nearby. Both lost all of their personal possessions in the fire.

“We have opened a case for further investigation and to determine the exact cause of the fire,” said Radzilani.