A well-known restaurant in Mossel Bay was destroyed in a fire in the early hours of Thursday, May 16. The flames engulfed the thatched-roofed structure, leaving little in their wake.

A local captured an image of the burning building

The Mossel Bay Municipality announced yesterday that the popular La-Belea Sportsbar at the De Bakke beach was ravaged by a fire early on Thursday morning.

All that is left of La-Belea Sportsbar

The Mossel Bay Fire & Rescue Services received an emergency call just after midnight. Upon their arrival, the entire structure was already alight. Fire fighters immediately started with extinguishing operations. The fire was completely extinguished just after 8am this morning.

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) were also on the scene and an investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of the fire.

A firefighter makes their way through the debris

“It is with great sadness and disappointment that we have to inform the public of this unfortunate incident. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. For now, we will secure the premises and decide at a later stage on the way forward and possible rebuilding of the icon building,” Adv Thys Giliomee, Municipal Manager, said.

No foul play is suspected but the investigation is yet to be completed.

Pictures: Facebook/Boshoff Photography 

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