Tensions erupted in Germiston after the Department of Home Affairs building was set ablaze during violent protests tied to the eviction of over 400 families from Pharoe Park — leaving thousands without access to critical ID and passport services.
Authorities confirmed that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the arson attack, which is believed to have been carried out using a petrol bomb. The fire tore through the two-story facility, causing extensive damage and forcing the immediate suspension of services.
Police say the suspects face multiple charges, including arson, public violence, vandalism, and defiance of a court order. Additional arrests are expected as the investigation unfolds. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and key official documents were secured before the flames spread.
The protests were sparked by the eviction of families from unlawfully occupied buildings — part of the City of Ekurhuleni’s drive to reclaim hijacked properties and recover more than R260 million in unpaid municipal rent. But many residents claim they were not properly notified, fueling tensions and sparking community unrest.
Reacting to the chaos, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber and Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza both condemned the attack, calling it a direct assault on public infrastructure and law and order.
To assist affected residents, Home Affairs has announced plans to deploy mobile offices in Boksburg and Alberton, aiming to restore essential services while repairs to the Germiston building are assessed.
As frustrations mount over housing, service delivery, and accountability, this latest incident underscores the volatile intersection between social unrest and public service disruption — with the fallout now affecting thousands who had nothing to do with the flames.
