Onderneeming fire leaves eight homeless

The aftermath of the fire

A family of eight was left homeless after a fire gutted their house at Onderneeming Sand Pit, Red Village, on Monday evening, destroying the building and all its contents.

The Difficult Circumstances Unit of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security conducted a site visit to assess the family’s immediate needs.

Among those affected are Romona Baychu, a cook who works in the interior to support her family, and Kevin Boyan, a wheelchair user who receives assistance from the ministry. Four school-aged children are now staying temporarily with a friend.
No injuries were reported, but authorities said the emotional toll on the family is significant. Baychu has suggested that the fire may have been deliberately set.

Investigators are expected to determine the cause of the blaze, while social services continue to coordinate support for the displaced family.