Community rallies behind Galeshewe mechanic after devastating fire
MESSAGES of support have poured in this week for Neo Diale, the owner of a vehicle repair business in Galeshewe, after a devastating fire on September 8 destroyed multiple vehicles at his workshop.
The blaze, which broke out at BND Motor Mac on Amakhuzeni Street at around 2pm, consumed at least 18 cars. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The fire was first noticed by children playing in a nearby park. Local residents quickly sprang into action, using buckets of water and sand in an attempt to contain the flames while awaiting the arrival of the fire brigade and police.
Initial reports suggest the fire originated outside the workshop and spread rapidly to a row of parked vehicles, with several explosions heard from the burning cars.
When the fire brigade arrived, they worked to bring the blaze under control. However, the fire engine had to leave the scene to refill before resuming efforts to douse the remaining flames. Two additional fire engines arrived later in the day to assist. Despite the chaos, no injuries were reported.
The Galeshewe police are currently investigating a case of malicious damage to property. Police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said they have yet to determine the exact cause of the fire. He urged anyone with information to contact the head ot the Galeshewe Detectives unit, Colonel Kale, on 082 446 9854 or report anonymously via the Crime Stop number 08600 10111. All information provided will be treated as confidential.
Authorities have reportedly ruled out sabotage by individuals who may have wanted the workshop to vacate the plot it occupied.
Diale's business, which he expanded in 2018 after identifying and cleaning the vacant plot, has been well-regarded in the community for creating jobs and rehabilitating unemployed locals.
Before Diale’s efforts, the plot had become a health hazard due to illegal dumping and fires. Although others had shown interest in the plot, including religious groups, Diale was the first to apply for it through the Sol Plaatje Municipality, and he expressed willingness to share the land with others if needed.
“I erected the fence while waiting for feedback from the municipality and moved some of the vehicles there to clear my yard at home because it was very busy,” said Diale.
“The community was relieved as the space had turned into a health hazard due to illegal dumpings and fires that were started there. They were also suffering from the stench, especially in summer.
“I later learned of a congregation that also wanted the plot. They started holding their prayer sessions under a tree next to me. But I didn’t have a problem or a fall out with anyone, because the decision on the land lies with the municipality,” added Diale.
“A church also approached me to ask for space near me and I referred them to the municipality. I did not see a problem, because I felt there was enough space for all of us. I actually expected the municipality to divide the piece of land among us, and am still anticipating that.
“The church erected their own structure but later removed it. Apparently they were removed by the municipality.”
He reiterated that although he was the first to apply to the municipality for the plot, he was open to sharing it rather than seeing it misused.
Reflecting on the fire, Diale noted that while it could have a significant impact on his business, he has received overwhelming messages of support from the community. He added that vehicle owners have come forward to assess the damage, with most understanding the situation. Many of the destroyed cars belonged to Diale himself, and only five were customer vehicles. He is working with the affected owners to find an amicable solution.
Despite the setback, Diale remains optimistic. His business, which primarily focuses on rebuilding and reselling cars, currently has around 90 vehicles stored in the yard, some from neighbouring provinces. While business has temporarily slowed, he is hopeful for the future.
