North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has expressed sadness over the reported death of four people, who died when a ferry carrying 200 passengers on the Hartbeespoort Dam caught fire on Saturday afternoon.

“On behalf of the North West Provincial Government, we send our condolences to the family affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult moment.

“We urge our police to ensure that the necessary investigations are conducted to determine the cause of the fire,” said Premier Mahumapelo in his reaction to the news.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Pelonomi Makau said the ferry caught fire at about 1 p.m. yesterday.

“Following an incident in which four women died when a cruise boat caught fire at Cosmos Boat Club in Hartebeesport Dam, police are investigating a case of Inquest,” Lt Col Makau said.

She said the cause of the fire was still unknown.

Source: Government of South Africa