Building used by migrants catches fire in Johannesburg, leaving more than 70 people dead

A fire broke out in a building in Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city, and left at least 73 people dead in the early hours of Thursday morning (31). According to the city government, another 43 people were injured.

The five-storey building was located in the city center and, according to the South African press, was considered abandoned by the government, but housed immigrants and homeless people. An estimated 200 people lived there.

According to Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesman Robert Mulaudzi, the interior of the building was an "informal occupation". Among the dead are seven children and the youngest victim was one year old, said Mulaudzi.

Rescue teams are working to rescue other victims who may be inside the building. The injured have been treated and taken to hospitals and medical centers in the region.

Source: Metro1